For all eligible Australian citizens over 18, voting is compulsory. However, this form of political participation may not be as easily accessible for culturally diverse Australians.
Many communities face barriers such as language, insufficient information or a lack of faith in a system that does not accurately reflect the people they represent.
In this essay, Senior Research Trish Prentice reveals alternative avenues to impacting policy-making, and asks if Australians from culturally diverse backgrounds engage politically at a greater level in these other spheres.
Speaking to local activists, reformers, educators and advocates, Trish unpacks the hurdles preventing participation within their respective communities and outlines what individuals have done to overcome them.
Related publications
Behind the scenes: The essential work of security officers in ensuring public safety
'Why call me that?' Reflections on labels in a diverse nation
To Serve and Protect
