Voices of Australia

S3 E6 | Preparing for the future: Education, social cohesion and the power of social enterprise for young people

In this episode, Anthea Hancocks, CEO of the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute talks to Nathaniel Diong, founder and CEO of Future Minds Network on the transformative power of education and social enterprise in preparing young people for an uncertain future.
Nathaniel shares his personal journey of overcoming a sense of helplessness after high school and discusses the pivotal role of education in fostering social cohesion. He discusses the need for young people to develop empathy, communication, and conflict resolution skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world where many future jobs don't yet exist. He also highlights the impact of his Malaysian Australian heritage on his sense of belonging and connection within society. We hear how at only 16 Nathaniel founded and became CEO of Future Minds Network (FMN), an award-winning youth engagement and training organisation.
Listen now to explore how we can equip the next generation to thrive in a world where many future jobs don’t yet exist. 
 
 

S3 E5 | Social cohesion begins in neighbourhoods

In episode 5, Anthea Hancocks, CEO of the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute talks to Em James (Australian Neighbourhood Houses and Centres Association) and Rosita Vincent (Neighbourhood Collective Australia) about the important role neighbourhood houses play in building social cohesion.  
You will hear from two different perspectives on how neighbourhoods activate to respond to community needs - one being through the lens of regional town Bendigo, Victoria and the other, more broadly sharing unique insights into how its down across Queensland neighbourhood house. 
During a cost of living crisis, does your neighbourhood play a role in helping those most in need? Who's responsibility is it to maintain levels of social cohesion within neighbourhoods?
Tune in to hear our guests' thoughts!

S3 E4 | Fostering Trust: Keys to Economic Growth and Community Harmony

Fostering Trust: Keys to Economic Growth and Community Harmony
Episode 4 of the Voices of Australia podcast explores the crucial role of trust in nurturing economic prosperity and social unity. Hosted by Anthea Hancocks, CEO of the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute (SFRI), this episode features Ian Harper AO, a renowned economist, academic and distinguished public commentator.
Ian shares profound insights drawn from navigating pivotal decisions during the pandemic, emphasising the significant responsibility inherent in influential economic roles. He passionately advocates leveraging privilege to serve broader societal goals, a principle he has instilled in his students. Ian’s reflections on the intersection of economics, social cohesion, and understanding individuals' positions offer a compelling exploration of how trust is key to economic sustainability.
 
About the Podcast:
Voices of Australia is a Scanlon Foundation Research Institute podcast exploring all things interesting in the world of social cohesion. Voices of Australia is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

S3 E3 | Building social cohesion through the power of sport

In Episode 3 of the Scanlon Institute’s Voices of Australia podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome the acclaimed AFLW player Emma Kearney. Join our host, Anthea Hancocks, as they delve into a conversation about the role of sport in breaking down barriers and fostering community.
We know that sports have the power to bring people together, but through our guests, we explore this impact even further. Anthea and Emma examine the broader benefits of sports beyond the competitive realm, focusing on its educational and social advantages, such as enhancing youth engagement and improving academic outcomes.
Emma also shares insights on how sport’s unifying power transcends language barriers, providing a sense of belonging and identity for individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Tune in to discover more in this thought-provoking episode!

S3 E2 | The role of media and social cohesion

In the second episode of Season 3 of the Voices of Australia podcast, we explore the influence of media/social media on social cohesion. Host Anthea Hancocks, CEO of the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute, is joined by guests Jon Faine AM, former ABC radio presenter and author and Misha Ketchell, Editor of The Conversation AU and NZ.  Through the lens’ of two of Australia’s well respected journalists, together with our Host Anthea, we unpack how the media landscape has changed with the rise of social media and what the media’s responsibilities are in the context of social cohesion.  Join us for an insightful exploration into how media dynamics shape social cohesion and public understanding.  Be sure to tune in every Thursday at 10AM for a new episode!
 
About Misha Ketchell
 
Misha is the Editor of The Conversation Australia and New Zealand. He has been an editor and journalist for more than 25 years.
 
He was founding editor of The Big Issue Australia and editor of Crikey, The Reader and The Melbourne Weekly.
 
He was also a reporter and feature writer at The Age and also worked at the ABC where he was a TV producer on Media Watch and The 7:30 Report and an editor on The Drum.
 
 
About Jon Faine AM
 
Jon Faine is a Vice Chancellors Fellow at the University of Melbourne for 2022 and 2023, attached to The Melbourne Law School but with a roving commission across the entire university.
 
Until October 2019 Jon Faine was the host of the agenda-setting morning broadcast for ABC Radio in Melbourne for over twenty years. Before joining the ABC in 1989 to host ‘The Law Report’ on Radio National, Jon had  practised for seven years in both commercial litigation and as a legal aid/human rights advocate. Countless conference presentations, panel moderations, MC duties, guest lectures and public events complement his legal and media career. Add to that a best selling travel book, several oral history publications, multiple opinion and commentary pieces for major newspapers, regular TV appearances and guest radio spots, as well as being script advisor for several films completes his diverse career.
 
For over thirty years, Jon has been in demand for conference keynote speeches, presentations, facilitation, and panel moderation. Specialising in complex matters of public policy, strategy, legal issues, technological challenge or cultural clashes, his work has covered every imaginable field.
 

S3 E1 | The role of humour in creating a more cohesive society

Join us for the Scanlon Institute's Voices of Australia Podcast Season 3 debut episode, where we delve into the intersection of social cohesion and humour with our guest, Diana Nguyen. Hosted by Anthea Hancocks, CEO of the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute, this episode promises a lively exploration of how laughter can bridge cultural divides and strengthen community bonds.
In this episode, Diana shares her insights on the power of comedy in fostering social harmony. From her experiences hosting The SnortCast to her role as co-creator of #PhiandMeTV, Australia's first Vietnamese Australian family comedy series, Diana illustrates how humour can transcend cultural barriers and challenge stereotypes. She reflects on her personal journey, including her acclaimed work on stage and screen, highlighting the importance of representation and storytelling in building a more inclusive society.
Throughout the conversation, Diana's infectious enthusiasm and passion for community shine through. Whether she's discussing her latest creative projects or the impact of laughter on individual lives, Diana brings a refreshing perspective to the ongoing dialogue on Australian identity and social cohesion.
Join us as we delve into Diana Nguyen's inspiring story and discover how laughter can bridge divides and empower communities.
About Diana Nguyen 
Diana Nguyen is a dynamic creative entrepreneur known for her roles as a comedian, writer, personal branding consultant, theatre maker, guest speaker, MC, and performer. Dubbed #DancingDiana, she has a strong LinkedIn following and founded The Launch Off, a Personal Branding business. Diana's career highlights include receiving the Overall Asian Australian Leadership Award in 2021. She adapted Alice Pung's novel "Laurinda" for Melbourne Theatre Company and is currently developing "Phi and Me Too," a TV show supported by Screen Australia. As co-creator of #PhiandMeTV, Australia's first Vietnamese Australian family comedy series, Diana continues to push boundaries in entertainment. Her engaging presence extends to television appearances and extensive tours across Australia and internationally. Offstage, Diana enjoys basketball and mastering surfing.
 

S2 E10 | What Australians think about the future

Australia is poised at, what Dr James O’Donnell (our Mapping Social Cohesion Report lead author) calls, a ‘critical junction’. In an ever-shifting global context, we find ourselves navigating rapid technological advances, changing demographics, and the pressing mandate of environmental action.While many might perceive these macro challenges as the domain of policymakers in distant corridors of power, the reality is that their actions echo profoundly within our communities, homes, schools, and workplaces. They influence every facet of life in Australia. So, what does the roadmap look like for our nation? What key policy decisions will define our trajectory in the next decade? How do we build bridges between the present challenges and a vision of an Australia that is prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable?In the final episode of Season 2 of our podcast, we delve deep into these critical questions, guided by the insights and expertise of our distinguished guest, Danielle Wood former CEO of the Grattan Institute and newly appointed Productivity Chairperson.Voices of Australia is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Now available with video also, in addition to audio-only!We’d love to hear from you! You can also share your thoughts with us via LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

S2 E9 | What Australians think about spirituality and religion

As recent data from the Australia Bureau of Statistics suggests, the spiritual landscape of our nation is undergoing a profound shift.
 
With Christianity still the dominant faith, a rising 38.9% of Australians now identify as non-religious, while other faiths, such as Hinduism and Islam, continue to grow.
 
How does this reflect the evolving dynamics of Australia's social fabric? What does it mean for social cohesion, individual rights, and community harmony in our increasingly multicultural society?
 
To delve deeper into these compelling questions, we've invited two extraordinary guests to our conversation today.
In this episode we discuss:
Generational differences around practicing religion
Politics and Religion
Multifaith initiatives to drive social cohesion
Diversity in religion and intellectual diversity
Voices of Australia is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

S2 E8 | What Australians think about discrimination and racism

Today, we’re focusing on Discrimination: How does it influence our society, and what should we do to move from acknowledging its existence to taking action against it? Research from the Diversity Council Australia found notable disparities in discrimination and harassment rates amongst various groups, from our First Nations People to individuals with disabilities and the LGBTQIA+ community. A similar ABC News survey revealed that a significant 76% of Australians acknowledge the prevalence of racism, further solidifying the urgent call for action.Addressing discrimination isn't just about redressing past and present wrongs. It's about ensuring a future where everyone can participate fully and fairly in contributing to a society where understanding and respect prevail.In this episode our discussion centres around this pressing issue, exploring ways we can actively challenge and overcome discrimination, fostering an inclusive society that celebrates diversity and champions equity.Join our host Anthea and guest Dr Mario Peucker, Associate Professor and Principal Research Fellow at the Institute for Sustainable Industries and Livable Cities (ISILC) at Victoria University who discusses:
The role of allies in tackling discrimination/racism
How to address different forms of racism
How to address underreporting of racism
What we should do as a society to support communities address these issues
Voices of Australia is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Now available with video also, in addition to audio-only!We’d love to hear from you! You can also share your thoughts with us via LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

S2 E7 | What Australians think about their government

There are few more critical aspects at the heart of our democracy than the levels of trust we have in our institutions and the degree to which we participate in Australia’s political system.
Politics is not a remote game, played in the distant halls of power. It shapes our daily lives, impacts our personal freedoms, and moulds our society's future. The need for meaningful political engagement and active civic participation cannot be overstated.
The results of recent Mapping Social Cohesion surveys have shown an alarming drop in public trust in political institutions. This decline is a call to action, a signal that we must all work to strengthen the ties between the public and the political world.
At the centre of this work is strengthening political participation, especially in our diverse local communities. When our political representation mirrors the complexity and richness of the Australian population, it fosters a more inclusive and robust democracy. It ensures that all voices are heard, and all perspectives are considered.
Today we’re looking at the intersection of public trust, political engagement, and inclusion. We'll examine how these elements interact, what's at stake, and how we can foster an environment where all Australians can trust in the integrity and inclusivity of our political system.
In this episode we discuss:
What makes for successful politics
Trust in government
Recurring themes in our political evolution
Dai’s story of entering politics
Representing a diverse and socially cohesive electorate
Dai's aspirations for Fowler
Voices of Australia is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.