The Steep Decline of Unity
In a revealing assessment of Australia’s national unity, the 2023 Togetherness Index showcased that the country is facing its third consecutive year of decline. Falling from 59 in 2020, the index score now stands at a concerning 56.
Australia’s Dividing Sentiment
Recent research conducted by SenateSHJ paints a telling picture: a significant 44% of Australians feel the country is more divided now compared to just a year ago. Delving deeper, a staggering 75% of participants expressed doubt or outright agreement that the nation is fractured.
Factors Fueling the Division
Several reasons are driving the sensation of division, with the debate around the Voice intensifying the rift. The division sentiment has been further exacerbated by the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
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The cost-of-living crisis has driven feelings of division. There is a sense of the haves and have nots, and that people are less likely to look out for each other. This has compounded feelings of division brought on by COVID-19. Unfortunately, the way in which the debate around the referendum is unfolding is leaving many feeling like there is little room for open discussion.
As Darren Behar, Managing Partner at SenateSHJ.
The Importance of Being Heard
The Togetherness Index has, since 2020, delved into understanding the elements of communication that either promote unity or foster division within communities. This comprehensive index analyzes communication from various avenues, including the government, media, and personal relations.
Notably, the research has identified a declining trust in communication from official channels like the government, mainstream media, and large businesses. Contrastingly, individuals are now leaning more towards localized sources, such as family, friends, and neighbours for authentic information and genuine connection.
The Togetherness Index helps guide how we reach people, how we communicate to enhance trust and togetherness. There is an opportunity at every level of society from individuals to government, to bring communities together. With only 29 per cent of us feeling listened to, there is opportunity for us as individuals, communities, organisations and governments to make a difference. Taking the time to listen to other people’s experiences, stories and points of view can help create stronger connections and makes others feel heard and valued.
Jodie Wrigley, SenateSHJ’s Head of Social Change
