Although the overall health status of Australians compares favourably with other developed countries, health status within the Australia population varies between different population groups. Illness and death have been shown to occur at higher rates among socioeconomically disadvantaged people. Health may also vary according to sex region of residence or country of birth. This bulletin examines and compares long-term mortality trends among Australian males in two broad occupational groups that reflect socioeconomic status, namely 'manual' and 'non-manual' workers.