The National Heart Foundation's Risk Factor Prevalence Survey in 1980 is described. Results for the prevalence of hypertension, smoking, hyperlipidemia, obesity and inactivity from the 1980 survey are presented. A second study was conducted in 1983 and a third is planned for 1986 or later. These surveys provide unique data on risk factors in Australians, and hold the prospect of determining trends which may be relevant to overall mortality trends in cardiovascular disease.