How people shape change, and why your voice matters

In Episode five of How Australia Works, we ask how individuals and communities can influence decisions and participate in Australian democracy.

Julie’s campaign shows how residents used meetings, media, flyers and a petition to help save their local library. Padma broadens the conversation, explaining why action must happen on the ground and why every individual can be an agent of change.

The episode explores practical ways to participate, including voting, responding to the Census, contacting councillors or members of Parliament, signing petitions and sharing personal stories. Listen to discover how individual voices can connect, build support and help shape change.

How Australia Works is available in 60 languages. Explore the series in other languages.

Credits:

How Australia Works is a podcast from SBS Audio and Australia Explained.

Host: L-FRESH The LION

Research and journalism: Annaliese Whipp and Gonzalo Aguirregomezcorta

Sound design, mix, original music and theme: L-FRESH The LION

Law and civics consultant: Dr Jacinta Sassine, School of Law, Western Sydney University

Artwork and design: Francesco Ortiz and Yudai Urushima

Writers: Josipa Kosanovic and Susan Burchill

Created and produced by: Josipa Kosanovic

Editor, Australia Explained: Roza Germian

Head of Educational and Essential Services, SBS Audio: Janine Googan

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands across Australia where this podcast is made and heard. We pay our respects to Elders past and present and acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples of this continent.

Parliamentary Material Australian House of Representatives excerpts courtesy of the Parliament of Australia. Copyright Commonwealth of Australia. Used under Creative Commons licence, subject to applicable licence terms.