Australia's fattest town title goes to Bundaberg in Queensland for having the highest obesity rate in the country. According to the data gathered by the Public Health Information Development Unit of Adelaide University, Bundaberg had the highest rate of obesity among all local government units.

Almost one-fourth of the total number of people living in Bundaberg, which is north of Brisbane, is obese. Out of 100 adults, 24 are considered obese. Following Bundaberg is NSW's Kempsey and Bowen. All of Australia's fattest towns can be found in NSW and Queensland.

The alarming rise of obesity rates has health experts recommending schools to hold mandatory cooking classes with a focus on healthy food.

The latest data about obesity comes after a study conducted by the Murdoch Children's Research Institute found that children with poor families will be three times more likely to grow up obese than children from wealthier families.

Obesity has become an international health issue, and experts have warned it will become a global pandemic if not addressed. Within 20 years, the world might see more than half of the adult population become obese or overweight.

Deported for being obese?

Meanwhile in New Zealand, immigration authorities decided to deport a South African who also works as a chef for no longer having an "acceptable standard of health". One-third of New Zealand's population is either overweight or obese based on reports.

Six years ago, South African native Albert Buitenhuis and wife Marthie, migrated to New Zealand. Both may be forced to return to their homeland after immigration authorities in New Zealand denied their work visas because of weight issues.

Authorities said Mr. Buitenhuis obesity could add to the cost of New Zealand's health services. When Mr. Buitenhuis arrived in the country, he was 350 pounds together with his wife who worked as a waitress. He has paid taxes to the New Zealand government and lost over 60 pounds.

According to the Press of New Zealand, his doctor said Mr. Buitenhuis was managing his weight and keeping his blood pressure down. The native South African has already appealed his deportation case. The associate immigration minister of New Zealand will make a decision in a week's time.

Immigration laws in New Zealand don't specify obesity or weight as grounds for deportation.

RELATED STORIES