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, measured across five key areas. 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.

2024 has been another challenging year for Australian society, due to ongoing economic uncertainty, a tough housing market, and heightened tensions over global conflicts. While the strength of local communities may be helping to protect wellbeing and harmony, these survey findings show that challenges to social cohesion remain, with some new pressures emerging.

Heightened financial pressures and growing concerns over economic inequality are negatively impacting Australians’ sense of worth, social inclusion and justice. These are among the most significant factors weighing down Australian social cohesion in 2023.

The Australian Cohesion Index brings together an extraordinary depth of data, knowledge and analysis to provide a robust picture of Australia today. It draws upon the ongoing rigour of the 'Mapping Social Cohesion' study, which has been undertaken since 2007, and is the only ongoing and comprehensive study of social cohesion in the world.

The Scanlon Foundation 'Mapping Social Cohesion' 2022 survey provides critical new information on how social cohesion is faring in Australia. This is the 16th survey in the series dating back to 2007, expanding what is now an unparalleled resource for understanding and tracking changes in the attitudes, perceptions and behaviours of Australians.