Allergies reach fever pitch as research shows alarming economic blowout

68% Aussies expose the true cost of springtime hay fever on their health

Spring is in the air, and so is pollen. While blooms may be lovely to look at, new research from health insurance comparison service iSelect shows the real challenges seasonal allergies cause at this time of year. 

iSelect comparison expert Sophie Ryan said the study found almost two in five Australians surveyed (30.9%) reported that hay fever disrupts their sleep or forces them to change their outdoor plans.¹¹ Source: The survey was commissioned by iSelect and conducted by PureProfile of 1,021 Australians, nationally represented across, age, gender and location in August 2025.   

“Hay fever isn’t just a seasonal nuisance, it can have a genuine impact on sleep, productivity and quality of life,” Sophie said. 

“Some states are more affected than others, and symptoms can peak at different times of the year.” 

“Generally, the season peaks around October and November, with Google Trends data finding Victoria, South Australia and the ACT have some of the highest search volumes for the term ‘hay fever during this time.”²² Google Trends – https://trends.google.com/trends/ information accurate as of 10 September 2025

Pollen is also infiltrating our performance in the workplace, with 13.8% of allergy sufferers reporting reduced productivity, and 11.8% taking sick days to manage symptoms including lethargy, coughing and headaches. 

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the prevalence of hay fever is increasing, with data revealing almost one in four Australians (23.9%) live with the condition.³³ Source: Tab 2, Cell H23, H30, B23 https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/health-conditions-and-risks/national-health-survey/2022/NHSDC01.xlsx  

Sophie said it’s a timely reminder for people to review their private health insurance and extras cover, to see what relief they can access under their policy. 

“Depending on your policy, you may be able to claim for specialist pharmaceuticals, including some non-PBS allergy medications,” Sophie said. 

“For those with more severe symptoms, hospital cover could also help with treatment for ear, nose and throat conditions, such as sinus surgery.”