Health literacy among adults in (Victoria), Australia after the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional survey

Introduction Health literacy is known to be deficient in diverse populations. This study aims to evaluate the health literacy of a segment of Australia’s adult population following the COVID-19 pandemic.Method Using quantitative cross-sectional method utilising validated survey guided by STROBE checklist, we used student-led process convenience-based sampling technique for a segment of Australia’s adult population. We collected Sociodemographic and other health literacy questions using a validated HLS-EU-Q16 questionnaire.Results Among 758 participants, almost one-third (220) had low level of HLS-EU-Q16 scores. Results from multiple linear regression model, after adjusting for covariates, indicate that HLS-EU-Q16 scores are significantly higher among participants with regular GP visits (β = 2.01, 95% CI 0.65–3.36), good or excellent self-rated health (β = 1.85, 95% CI 0.52–3.18), education above secondary level (β = 2.21, 95% CI 0.98–3.43), and employment in healthcare (β = 2.70, 95% CI 0.75–4.64). Lower health literacy scores are observed among participants born outside Australia/New Zealand (β = −1.66, 95% CI −3.07 to −0.26).Conclusion The reported health literacy level and the proportion of participants not having a regular GP are concerning. For meaningful gains to be made, demographics such as country of birth and cultural background requires targeted approach.