In this final instalment of Truth, Trust, and Politics, Mary Gearin interviews former ABC colleague Jon Faine, reflecting on the evolving media landscape, misinformation, and political trust. They discuss how social media has fueled misinformation, widening the gap between facts and public perception. The conversation explores the decline of traditional media, the rise of new influential voices, and how fear-driven narratives shape political discourse. They also examine the challenges of political accountability, voter scepticism, and the growing demand for transparency from politicians. Public health messaging, particularly in engaging vaccine sceptics, is highlighted as an area requiring innovation. Mary Gearin and Faine emphasise the importance of political diversity and civic engagement in strengthening democracy. As voter expectations shift, they question how politicians and the media must adapt to restore trust. This final episode brings together key themes of the series, offering insights into the intersection of truth, trust, and political communication in today’s world. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Truth, Trust, and Politics 02:35 The Evolution of Facts and Mistruths 06:15 The Business of Misinformation 08:13 Democracy and Political Disengagement 11:00 The Role of Politicians in Society 15:43 Media's Accountability and the Fear Factor 20:35 The Existential Crisis of Journalism 23:44 The Evolving Landscape of Media Influence 26:14 Legacy Media vs. New Voices 28:14 Engaging the Vaccine Skeptics 32:01 Innovative Communication Strategies 36:49 Restoring Trust in Politics 41:24 The Future of Political Engagement

The Spread of Misinformation: Lessons from the Voice to Parliament Referendum In this episode, Mary Gearin interviews Andrea Carson, who unpacks the complexities of misinformation and disinformation, particularly in the lead-up to the Voice to Parliament referendum. Drawing on her extensive research, Andrea Carson examines how social media has reshaped political discourse, creating an environment where falsehoods can spread rapidly and influence public perception. Professor Andrea Carson explores the challenges of regulating misinformation, the role of fact-checking and media literacy, and the responsibility of political leaders in shaping public trust. In an era where trust in media and institutions is fragile, Andrea Carson argues that empowering the public with critical thinking skills is key to safeguarding democracy. Chapters 00:00 Mapping the Information Ecosystem 02:53 The Impact of Misinformation on Politics 05:53 Regulating Misinformation and Disinformation 08:59 The Role of Fact-Checking in Trust 12:05 Youth, Social Media Literacy, and Trust 14:51 The Future of Political Discourse and Trust

With the 2025 federal election approaching, trust in politics and the media is at an all-time low. Unchecked misinformation is spreading, political discourse is increasingly polarised, and voters struggle to separate fact from fiction. Can we rebuild trust before it’s too late? In this episode, Mary Gearin speaks with Bill Browne, Director of the Democracy & Accountability Program at The Australia Institute, and Mark Kenny, journalist and Professor at ANU, to explore the crisis of trust in political communication. They discuss the media’s role in shaping public perception, the impact of misinformation on elections, and the decline of trust in democratic institutions. With election campaigns becoming battlegrounds for misleading narratives, they examine whether stronger truth-in-political-advertising laws and greater media accountability could help restore public confidence. How can politicians and the media rebuild credibility? Who should be held accountable for misinformation? And most importantly, how do we strengthen democracy before Australians head to the polls?   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Truth, Trust, and Politics 02:35 The Evolution of Facts and Mistruths 06:15 The Business of Misinformation 08:13 Democracy and Political Disengagement 11:00 The Role of Politicians in Society 15:43 Media's Accountability and the Fear Factor 20:35 The Existential Crisis of Journalism 23:44 The Evolving Landscape of Media Influence 26:14 Legacy Media vs. New Voices 28:14 Engaging the Vaccine Skeptics 32:01 Innovative Communication Strategies 36:49 Restoring Trust in Politics 41:24 The Future of Political Engagement

In the third episode, we explore the Disengagement Dilemma: Why young Australians, particularly those from migrant backgrounds, are turning away from politics.

In this thought-provoking episode, Zali Steggall MP joins seasoned political analyst Michael Maley to explore one of the most pressing issues of our time: truth in politics. Together, they unpack the growing challenges of misinformation, the rise of "alternative facts," and the historical attempts to regulate truth in political advertising. In this conversation led by Mary Gearin, they delve into why credible facts matter, how political debate often involves future predictions, and why voters need protection from misleading claims. They also highlight the urgent need for modern "guardrails" to ensure trustworthy political messaging, especially as AI and deepfakes amplify the risks of disinformation. Zali and Michael also reflect on how unchecked misinformation can erode public trust and disengage voters, threatening the very foundation of democracy. They argue that while consequences for spreading falsehoods must be serious to deter bad actors, the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) should not bear the impossible burden of deciding what is true in the political arena.   Chapters 00:00 Defining Truth in Politics 06:09 The Challenge of Alternate Facts 10:31 Historical Context of Truth in Advertising Laws 14:53 The Need for Modern Guardrails 20:03 Legislating Voter Protection Laws 26:40 Consequences and Deterrents for Misinformation 31:49 The Fragility of Democracy and Trust 36:55 The Importance of Credible Facts 41:23 Propaganda & Misinformation 45:11 Mary Wrapping Up 45:31 End Credits  

In this conversation, Mary Gearin and Kate Torney OAM discuss the declining trust in journalism and its interrelation with political discourse and other institutions. Kate Torney emphasises the need for journalism to reflect on its role and constructively engage with audiences, particularly younger generations. Kate Torney also advocates for a shift from traditional conflict journalism to constructive journalism, which focuses on solutions and civil discourse. She highlights the importance of representation in media and the need for media literacy to combat misinformation and engage audiences effectively. The conversation also touches on the challenges of political discourse and the role of optimism in journalism.   Chapters 00:00 The Crisis of Trust in Journalism 01:54 Kate Turney Introduction 02:50 Reframing Journalism's Role 06:05 Engaging Younger Audiences 08:52 Constructive Journalism: A New Approach 12:03 The Importance of Representation in Media 14:53 Navigating News Fatigue 18:14 The Challenge of Political Discourse 21:09 The Role of Optimism in Journalism 24:00 Media Literacy and Engagement 27:08 Avoiding Advocacy in Journalism 29:57 Constructive Journalism in Political Campaigns 33:00 End Credits

In Episode 10 of Voices of Australia, Scanlon Institute's CEO Anthea Hancocks unpacks the interdependency of health and social cohesion with two highly respected public health physicians.Healthcare leader and infectious disease expert Associate Professor Kudzai Kanhutu from the University of Melbourne and Royal Australasian College of Physicians, together with Professor Benjamin Cowie Professorial Fellow at the University of Melbourne and Infectious Diseases Physician at Doherty Institute, discuss the critical nature of access to primary healthcare and learnings gained from the healthcare response during Covid-19 through the lens of social cohesion.With an insightful discussion, A/Prof Kanhutu and Professor Cowie analyse aspects of the current healthcare system and where there is room for improvement as it relates to building a cohesive community. Catchup on all our episodes: https://scanloninstitute.org.au/podcast

This episode features Anthea Hancocks, CEO of the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute interviewing journalist Peter Mares and Dr Cressida Gaukroger on the escalating issue of inequality in Australia, and its multifaceted impact on society, democracy, and social cohesion. The conversation explores the ways in which inequality is manifesting, particularly through the housing market, and the implications this has on Australian society.

In this episode, Anthea Hancocks, CEO of the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute chats to Grace Williams, founder of Citizen Tasmania about the organisation's work and its efforts to support migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers in resettling in Tasmania. The conversation delves into the challenges these individuals face, the role of education and social capital in their integration, and the importance of fostering a sense of belonging in a new environment. Citizen Tasmania's mission is to empower these communities to gain social capital, express themselves, and feel part of Australian culture, addressing the gaps in resettlement that hinder their ability to thrive. Grace shares that her strong belief in the power of education, ingrained during her upbringing in West Africa, played a crucial role in her resettlement experience in Tasmania. She explained that being literate allowed her to better understand and engage with her new environment, making her transition easier compared to others who might lack such skills. This experience fuelled her passion for advocating education as the foundation for successful resettlement, as it provides the necessary tools to reflect, ask questions, and make informed choices. As a law graduate and winner of a social justice bursary, Grace worked to amplify the voices of those less literate in human rights, further deepening her commitment to supporting educational attainment for others.

Episode 7 of the Voices of Australia podcast looks at the impact of businesses and industry on creating a socially cohesive community. Join Scanlon Institute's CEO Anthea Hancocks, as she discusses the topic in depth with Prisma Legal founder and Chair of the Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce, Fotini Kypraios, and Deakin University Industry Professor Robin Scott (former Minister of Victorian Parliament). Together they unpack how businesses can contribute to social cohesion, who should be responsible and why its important businesses consider social cohesion, and how Government can partner with industry to create tangible outcomes. Fotini and Robin provide also provides insightful discussion about the importance of embedding diversity, equity and inclusion in organisational culture which in turn drives a more cohesive society.  

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.     

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!

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. 

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!

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.  

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.  

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.

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.

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.

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.