MAPPING SOCIAL COHESION
Social connections through troubled times
In 2025, national and global events have placed pressure on Australian society.
The Mapping Social Cohesion report looks at what impact this has had on our social cohesion.
This year the Scanlon Index remained
the same as in 2023 and 2024
highlighting the resilience of Australians social connections.
Concerns regarding the economy and housing
detract from a sense of multicultural harmony.
Levels of
prejudice and discrimination towards some immigrants and faith groups remains persistent.
The previous declines in national pride and belonging have eased but are still relatively low.
Differences in “sense of belonging” are clear, with younger people, those identifying as poor and those from non-English speaking backgrounds recording the lowest levels.
Reassuringly Australians still have strong support for multiculturalism.
Although there remains a concern the number of migrants arriving is too high.
Financial circumstances remain the most important factor associated with social cohesion.
At the most recent federal election voters increased their trust in the government from 33 – 37%.
Across the Australian population feelings of happiness vary and social disconnection weighs more on younger people.
On average,
79% of Australians are either happy or very happy.
54% of Australians
are involved in some form of social, religious, civic or political group.
