The Heart Foundation’s State of the Heart 2025 survey1 set out to capture a nationally representative picture of Australians’ health related habits, including nutrition related behaviours such as food purchasing habits, adherence to heart-healthy dietary advice, and the barriers that influence everyday food choices. The survey was conducted by the Social Research Centre using the Life in Australia™ probability-based online panel, achieving 5,099 interviews (completion rate 67.5%) between 4–16 March 2025. The survey findings reveal distinct patterns in Australians’ shopping behaviours, dietary habits, and barriers to healthy eating, with clear variations across age and gender. Cost-conscious shopping was widespread, with 72% of Australians seeking discounts, 61% shopping across multiple stores, and 55% planning meals ahead. Women were more likely than men to engage in these behaviours (i.e. discount-seeking: 76% vs. 68%), with the highest prevalence among adults aged 45–54 (77%). Adherence to Heart-Healthy Eating Pattern principles was high for certain messages, including incorporating eggs/poultry (85%), choosing healthy oils (82%), eating vegetables, fruits, and wholegrains (81%), limiting alcohol to <10 standard drinks/week (80%), and selecting unflavoured dairy (78%). However, disparities emerged with men being less likely to choose healthy oils (79% vs. 84%), limit alcohol (75% vs. 84%), or reduce red meat intake (61% vs. 74%). Younger adults (18–34) were notably less likely to include fish/seafood (53%) despite demonstrating higher adherence to alcohol guidelines than older cohorts. The most frequently cited barriers to healthy eating were the high cost of healthy food and the convenience of unhealthy options. Women were more likely to report cost pressures and family resistance to healthy meals, while men more often cited disliking the taste of healthy food. Younger adults faced time constraints, knowledge gaps, and a greater susceptibility to convenient, less healthy options. Non-binary/self-described respondents consistently reported the highest barrier rates across all categories, highlighting the importance of inclusive strategies. Confidence in preparing healthy foods was highest for fruit (88%), healthy oils (86%), and vegetables (84%). Women generally reported greater confidence across food categories, except for fish, where men led (70% vs. 62%). Adults aged 18–34 showed the lowest confidence overall, with the exception of herbs, spices, and fruit. These findings suggest that while nutrition awareness is strong nationally, practical and perceptual challenges (i.e. thinking healthy food is less tasty) limit the translation of knowledge into action, particularly among younger adults and men. Strategies to address cost barriers, improve the perceived palatability of healthy foods, and build cooking skills in younger demographics are warranted. Consideration of how consumers prefer to receive dietary advice is recommended to enhance engagement, promote quick and affordable healthy meals, and foster long-term heart-healthy behaviours.