Civic health is a concept that might seem abstract at first, but it is a vital indicator of the wellbeing of our communities and societies at large. Defined by Moore-Vissing and Mallory (2020), civic health refers to how community members engage in activities that strengthen both individual and collective wellbeing. This includes everything from participating in local discussions on social and political issues to volunteering in community organizations, staying informed, and building trust among neighbors. In essence, civic health reflects the vibrancy and resilience of our social fabric.
In support of this exploration, we share this report, “The Civic Health of Australia: A National Portrait in 30 Charts.” This report, powered by Menzies Foundation, and developed by the Australian Leadership Index at Swinburne University, underscores the urgency of addressing the decline in civic engagement, social cohesion, and volunteering across Australia.
The Components of Civic Health
When assessing civic health, we can break it down into three core categories:
- Civic Awareness and Engagement
- Sense of Belonging and Social Connection
- Volunteering and Giving
Each of these dimensions plays a crucial role in determining how connected, informed, and engaged a community is as explored in “The Civic Health of Australia: A National Portrait in 30 Charts.”
The State of Civic Health in Australia
The assessment of civic health in Australia reveals both strengths and challenges. On one hand, Australians demonstrate resilience in social cohesion and maintain a relatively high level of trust in each other. On the other hand, there is a concerning decline in trust in political institutions and a decrease in active civic participation, particularly in volunteering and membership in social organisations.
These findings suggest that while Australia’s civic health is holding up in certain areas, it is under strain in others. The decline in trust in government and political engagement, coupled with the long-term drop in volunteering and social group participation, points to a need for renewed focus on strengthening the civic fabric of Australian communities.
Strengthening Our Civic Health
To foster a healthier civic environment, efforts must be made to rebuild trust in political institutions, encourage more active civic participation, and support social cohesion amidst growing polarisation. Civic health is not just about individual actions; it’s about the collective wellbeing of our communities. By addressing these challenges, we can work towards a more connected, engaged, and resilient society, where everyone feels empowered to contribute to the ‘greater good’.
