Voices of Australia

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.

S2 E6 | What Australians think about Climate Chane

In this episode, we turn our attention towards the not-so-silent giant that is climate change. However, our focus shifts away from statistics and environmental impacts. Instead, we delve into the often-overlooked human side of this vast issue: local and cultural community adaptation, educational campaigns, resilience, and more.
 
Climate change is not just a scientific concern; it's a social one. Our very ways of life, our cultures, our communities, are under threat from its unrelenting progress. Indeed, according to the most recent Mapping Social Cohesion results, climate change stands as the second-largest concern for Australians, superseded only by Australia-China relations.
 
Yet, in this crisis, there is also an opportunity. An opportunity for meaningful change and resilience. An opportunity as informed and engaged communities to build a sustainable future for us all.
In this episode we discuss:
How different societies tackle climate change
How we should find a role for all Australians in the climate conversation
Innovative practices to combat climate change
Voices of Australia is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

S2 E5 | What Australians think about mental health

Consider this: a striking 44% of Australians have experienced a mental disorder at some time in their life. With mental health challenges spanning from anxiety to depression, millions fight these invisible battles daily.Alarmingly, the suicide rate among First Nations People is almost double that of non-indigenous individuals, a stark reminder of the urgent need for targeted support.Furthermore, the lack of data on mental health within migrant and refugee populations underscores the call for extensive research and culturally sensitive approaches. Our society's pulse is intrinsically linked to our collective mental well-being - it shapes our social interactions, strengthens our communities, and constructs the bridges of understanding and cooperation that foster social cohesion. With our host Anthea Hancocks and guest Tigist Kebede, we turn our attention to mental health, a topic that weaves itself into every corner of our society. As we unravel the intricate tapestry of mental well-being in Australia, we examine the prevalence of mental disorders, spotlight disparities in different communities, and discuss strategies to foster resilience and happiness. In this episode we discuss:
What is culturally responsive practice
How someone's identity impacts how they experience the world
How we should reframe ‘resilience’
Understanding intersectionality and self - there is no single path to getting help
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. Now available with video also, in addition to audio-only!We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes to info@scanloninstitute.org.auYou can also share your thoughts with us via LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

S2 E4 | What Australians think about Fairness and Inequality

The most recent Mapping Social Cohesion surveys tell us that economic concerns have surged to the forefront of many Australians' minds.
Unemployment and the rising cost of living are not distant worries but real and present issues for many Australians. An increasingly uncertain global economic climate only compounds these worries, with 76% of respondents expressing significant concerns about a potential downturn.
But perhaps even more distressing is the increasing financial stress borne by everyday Australians. An alarming 37% of people reported struggling to pay their bills in 2022, marking a significant rise from 31% the previous year.
As if this weren't challenging enough, the Poverty and Inequality Report of 2023 lays bare a stark reality. Our nation, long hailed as the land of the 'fair go', is grappling with profound economic disparities. The data is as clear as it is unsettling. A startling one in eight people in our country live below the poverty line, while the top 20% earners account for almost half of all income.
These figures serve as a sombre reminder that, despite our shared aspiration towards fairness, inequality persists in casting a long and deepening shadow over our society.
In today's episode with guest Matt Grudnoff - Senior Economist at the Australia Institute we aim to explore the contours of this inequality, understand its far-reaching impacts, and discuss potential pathways towards a more economically inclusive future.
In this episode we discuss:
Matts research on the patterns of economic growth
Changing voting patterns amongst younger people
The biggest indicators of poverty
How economic policies have profound impact on intergenerational inequality
The economy is there to serve us not for us to serve the economy
Why its important to engage in economic debate
Voices of Australia is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes to info@scanloninstitute.org.au

S2 E3 | What Australians think about...languages other than English

In a nation where over 300 languages reverberate from homes, workplaces, and public spaces, language is more than just a communication tool—it's a cultural lifeline that bridges our diverse communities.
Our linguistic diversity isn't just colourful, it's vital and influential. It's a Punjabi in radio podcast serving up global affairs alongside local news, it's a crucial health announcement rendered in Somali to ensure every community member is informed, it's the heart-warming banter between a shop owner and customers in Italian, across a bustling Lygon Street in Melbourne.
 
This linguistic diversity shapes our individual identities, our daily experiences, and the character of our public discourse. Yet, the role and influence of non-English languages continue to prompt discussions that stretch into the heart of cultural integration, societal cohesion, and the concept of belonging.
 
In this episode, we delve into the nuances in Australia’s linguistic diversity, exploring their far-reaching impact from business interactions to media broadcasts and government communications, and their ripple effect on our society's cohesion and shared, multicultural story.
Voices of Australia is a Scanlon Foundation Research Institute podcast exploring all things interesting in the world of social cohesion. You can find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes to info@scanloninstitute.org.au