- Togetherness Index falls for third year running from a score of 59 in 2020 to 56 in September 2023
- Only 25 per cent think Australia is united, with 44 per cent believing we are more divided than 12 months ago.
More than two fifths of Australians feel the country is more divided than a year ago, according to the 2023 Togetherness Index.
The debate surrounding the Voice has compounded a sense of division which has grown amid the cost-of-living crisis and in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
An overwhelming majority (75 per cent) either think, or is unsure if, Australia is divided, the research from SenateSHJ reveals.
Just a quarter of Australians think the country is united. For this minority, the Matildas’ World Cup success and our community spirit are key factors in bringing the country together.
Darren Behar, Managing Partner at SenateSHJ, said: “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.”
Those who feel that we are more divided overall have lower scores on the Togetherness Index with the biggest driver being that people do not feel listened to.
Since 2020, the Togetherness Index has explored what components of communication contribute to togetherness or social cohesion within the community. It considers communication from sources as diverse as government, media, social media, family, friends and community organisations.
The research reveals that trust in communication from government, media and large businesses continues to decline.
Instead, trusted sources of information come from more hyper local sources. We continue to turn to those close to us for connection, optimism and information. While just a third of people trust government and media sources, three quarters trust their family and two thirds their friends and neighbours.
Jodie Wrigley, Head of Social Change at SenateSHJ, said: “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.”
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