Australia’s Erosion of Social Cohesion: The Rise of Racism and Inequality

Australia is experiencing a troubling shift as racism transitions from the fringe to the mainstream, threatening social cohesion and democratic stability. Dr. Victoria Fielding highlights that the rise of anti-immigration movements, such as the "March for Australia," and incidents of violence, including the Bondi terror attack, signal a dangerous trend. The Scanlon Institute's 2025 report indicates that while Australia has historically maintained high levels of social cohesion, there is a growing bias against non-White immigrants, particularly those from Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. This shift is exacerbated by political figures like Barnaby Joyce, who has joined the One Nation party, and far-right Senators Alex Antic and Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, who promote anti-immigrant rhetoric.

Australia’s growing tolerance for racism a threat to democracy

The decline in social cohesion is not solely due to rising racism but is also linked to deepening economic inequality. Dr. Bronwyn Kelly argues that the neoliberal economic policies adopted over the past three decades have contributed significantly to social fractures. The Scanlon Foundation's findings reveal that financial circumstances are a primary factor affecting social cohesion, suggesting that economic disparities are at the heart of societal divisions.

Australia’s social cohesion troubles can be resolved by addressing inequality

Critics argue that the Australian government's response, including the establishment of a Royal Commission on Anti-Semitism and Social Cohesion, may not adequately address the root causes of social discontent. Kelly contends that focusing on symptoms rather than systemic issues like inequality will not yield meaningful solutions. The media's role in perpetuating divisive narratives further complicates efforts to foster unity.

Australia’s social cohesion troubles can be resolved by addressing inequality

In response to rising anti-Semitism and social division, the Australian government has initiated a Royal Commission aimed at addressing these issues. However, the effectiveness of this inquiry is questioned, with concerns that it may inadvertently fuel further division rather than promote cohesion. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's acknowledgment of social cohesion as a pressing issue reflects a recognition of the challenges facing the nation.

Australia’s social cohesion troubles can be resolved by addressing inequality

The normalization of racist attitudes and the persistence of economic inequality pose significant threats to Australia's democracy. The experiences in the United States and the United Kingdom serve as cautionary tales, illustrating how anti-immigration sentiment can destabilize societies. The potential for a similar trajectory in Australia raises alarms about the future of social harmony and democratic integrity.

Australia’s growing tolerance for racism a threat to democracy

While some sources emphasize the role of racism as a primary driver of social discontent, others highlight economic inequality as the more pressing issue. This divergence in perspectives underscores the complexity of the situation and the need for a multifaceted approach to address both racism and inequality.

Australia’s social cohesion troubles can be resolved by addressing inequality

• “The rise of the anti-immigration “March for Australia” movement, the Bondi terror attack – an act of violent antisemitism which also stoked islamophobia – last week’s failed bombing attempt on Indigenous community members at the Perth Invasion Day protest and Pauline Hanson’s One Nation party surging in the polls should have all the alarm bells ringing that Australia is on the precipice of a catastrophic schism in social cohesion which is undermining public safety, cultural togetherness and ultimately, Australia’s democracy.” — Dr. Victoria Fielding, Independent Australia columnist.

Australia’s growing tolerance for racism a threat to democracy

• “The causes of antisemitism will not be dealt with by adjustments of policing and security agencies, as seems to be the expectation of the Government in its terms of reference.” — Dr. Bronwyn Kelly, Founder of Australian Community Futures Planning.

Australia’s social cohesion troubles can be resolved by addressing inequality

• “It is, in this sense, an expensive machine for social failure.” — Gerry Georgatos, social justice researcher.

Slow violence in the Kimberley’s forgotten prison

In conclusion, addressing the intertwined issues of racism and economic inequality is crucial for restoring social cohesion in Australia. Without a comprehensive strategy that tackles both systemic and symptomatic problems, the nation risks further division and instability.

Australia’s social cohesion troubles can be resolved by addressing inequality