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Systematic Review to Update ‘Value of a Statistical Life’ Estimates for Australia

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  • Jaithri Ananthapavan

    (Deakin Health Economics, School of Health and Social Development, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
    Global Obesity Centre, School of Health and Social Development, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia)

  • Marj Moodie

    (Deakin Health Economics, School of Health and Social Development, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
    Global Obesity Centre, School of Health and Social Development, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia)

  • Andrew J. Milat

    (NSW Ministry of Health, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
    Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia)

  • Rob Carter

    (Deakin Health Economics, School of Health and Social Development, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia)

Abstract

The value of a statistical life (VSL) estimates individuals’ willingness to trade wealth for mortality risk reduction. This economic parameter is often a major component of the quantified benefits estimated in the evaluation of government policies related to health and safety. This study reviewed the literature to update the VSL recommended for Australian policy appraisals. A systematic literature review was conducted to capture Australian primary studies and international review papers reporting VSL estimates published from 2007 to January 2019. International estimates were adjusted for income differences and the median VSL estimate was extracted from each review study. VSL estimates were used to calculate the value of a statistical life year. Of the 18 studies that met the inclusion criteria, two studies were primary Australian studies with a weighted mean VSL of A$7.0 million in 2017 values. The median VSL in the review studies was A$7.3 million. For Australian public policy appraisals, we recommend the consideration of a base case VSL for people of all ages and across all risk contexts of A$7.0 million. Sensitivity analyses could use a high value of A$7.3 million and a low value that reflects the value (A$4.3 million) currently recommended by the Australian government.

Suggested Citation

  • Jaithri Ananthapavan & Marj Moodie & Andrew J. Milat & Rob Carter, 2021. "Systematic Review to Update ‘Value of a Statistical Life’ Estimates for Australia," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(11), pages 1-17, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:18:y:2021:i:11:p:6168-:d:570386
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    References listed on IDEAS

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