Mapping Social Cohesion in a World in Turmoil

Lunch with Anthea Hancocks

Hosted by Bruce Hartnett AM

In a world struggling with conflict, division and polarisation, social cohesion in Australia remains under pressure, but has not cracked.

The Mapping Social Cohesion Report 2024 provides us with a picture of the Australian population that often helps us to rebalance our perspectives. Under the weight of the last year, Australians’ sense of belonging, happiness and participation in community and civic life have held steady, while the strength of our communities may be protecting our wellbeing and harmony.

Post the Federal election, and as the 2025 survey is being undertaken, we can take the time to reflect on some key indicators, such as the influence of age on our feeling of cohesion, the role that religion plays in Australia and how our happiness is impacted by where we live.

We are delighted to welcome back Anthea Hancocks, CEO of the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute, for lunch this July. Anthea will provide insights and pathways forward to continue to strengthen our social cohesion.

Anthea has a background in strategic planning, business development, community service, education, communications, and marketing through leadership positions in government, professional services, academia and not-for-profit organisations. 

Anthea is Chair of the Huddle Advisory Committee at the North Melbourne Football Club, Chair of the Monash Migration, and Inclusion Centre Advisory Board. She is a Fellow of Monash University, a Civil Society and Public Administration Fellow with the Toronto Metropolitan University and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. She is a PhD candidate at Monash University.

Social cohesion, or lack thereof, affects us all. Join Anthea and your fellow members to learn and discuss what's happening within Australian society.