Injuries in children and adolescents are a significant contributor to hospitalisations in Australia. This report presents 2021–22 hospitalisation and emergency department presentation data among children and adolescents aged 0–18 years. It describes the main types and causes of injury, variation among specific populations, and the severity of injuries. Differences by developmental stage and comparisons to adult injury patterns are included. Additionally, the report assesses trends over the last decade.
- Cat. no: INJCAT 238
Findings from this report:
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1 in 3 injury hospitalisations among children were caused by a fall (33%), most commonly involving playground equipment
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Hospitalisation rates have increased over time for girls in infancy and early adolescence
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Toddlers are more likely to have an ED presentation, while adolescents are more likely to be hospitalised for an injury
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Children are at greater risk of certain causes and types of injury according to developmental stage