In 2025, national and global events have placed pressure on Australian society. This report looks at what impact this has had on Australia's social cohesion. Social cohesion is measured across five key areas or domains. Despite the continuing national and global challenges of recent years, most of the indicators of social cohesion have been stable in the last two years.

The report is accompanied by a video.

Key domains

1. Belonging: the sense of pride and belonging people have in Australia and in Australian life and culture, and the belonging they feel in their neighbourhoods.
2. Worth: the degree of emotional and material wellbeing.
3. Social inclusion and justice: perceptions of economic fairness and trust in government.
4. Participation: involvement in political activities and participation in social, community and civic groups.
5. Acceptance and rejection: attitudes to immigrant diversity, support for minorities and experience of discrimination.

Key findings

• 48% of people think immigration is too high.
• 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.
• Two in five Australians born in Africa and Asia experienced discrimination in the last 12 months.
• People who perceive strong cohesion in their neighbourhoods and actively participate are more likely to have a great sense of belonging in Australia.
• 84% still agree that multiculturism has been good for Australia.
• Financial circumstances remain the most important factor associated with social cohesion.