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.