Every five years, the Census gives Australia a shared moment to reflect on who we are and how we live.

Read more: Why the Census matters to Christians in Australia

It is more than a statistical exercise. The Census helps governments, institutions and communities understand how Australia is changing, and how to plan funding, services and support for the years ahead.

For Christians in Australia, this matters.

Our faith is not simply a private belief. It shapes how we worship, serve, gather, raise families, care for others, build community and contribute to public life.

When the Census asks about religion, it is asking a question that connects directly with identity, belonging and the role faith continues to play in Australian society.

More Than a Box to Tick

For many Christians, answering the religion question may feel straightforward.

If Christian faith is part of your life, your worship, your community and your understanding of who you are, then the Census is one way that identity is recognised in the national picture.

But the question still matters.

The Census does not measure the depth of anyone’s faith. It cannot capture prayer, discipleship, service, church life, generosity, conviction or devotion.

What it can do is record how many people in Australia identify with Christianity.

That makes the question important, because what is recorded helps shape how Australia understands its communities.

Faith Has a Public Presence

Christianity in Australia is lived out in many visible ways.

It is seen in churches, schools, hospitals, aged care, charities, chaplaincy, community services, crisis support, family life and everyday acts of service.

It is present when Christians gather for worship, care for neighbours, support the vulnerable, educate children, visit the lonely, pray in times of hardship and serve their local communities.

The Census helps show that faith is not absent from Australian life. It remains part of the story of who we are.

Why Visibility Matters

Census data informs how governments, organisations and communities understand the nation.

Religious identification data contributes to the broader picture used in planning services, understanding community needs, supporting cultural and social research, and recognising the role different communities play in public life.

If Christian identity is under-recognised in the data, the contribution and presence of Christian communities can become less visible in the national conversation.

This is not about seeking special treatment.

It is about truthful representation.

Answering With Clarity

For Christians, the Census is an opportunity to answer clearly and thoughtfully.

The religion question is not asking how often you attend church, how strong your faith feels, or whether you meet someone else’s standard of religious commitment.

It is asking how you identify.

For those who identify as Christian, the answer matters because it contributes to a fuller and more accurate picture of Australia.

Helping Others Understand the Question

Many Christians also have family members, friends or neighbours who may have a connection to Christianity, even if they are unsure how to answer the religion question.

Some may have been shaped by Christian family, schooling, community, prayer, tradition or values, but may not immediately think of themselves as “religious”.

This is not something to force or assume.

But it may be something worth discussing gently and honestly.

The aim is not to persuade people to choose an answer that does not feel true. It is to help people understand the question and respond in a way that reflects their own story.

A Moment for Reflection

The Census gives each person a simple but meaningful opportunity to reflect.

What is my faith?

How do I identify?

What story does my answer tell?

For Christians, this is a chance to be counted clearly as part of the national picture.

Not defensively. Not politically. Not to make a point.

Simply truthfully.

A Broader Picture of National Identity

Australia is changing, and so is how people understand belief and identity.

The Census doesn’t resolve these complexities, but it does record them. Those records shape how Australia understands itself over time.

For Christians, this isn’t about defending a position. It’s about being clear on how our identity is communicated in the public square.

Because in the end, the Census is not just about categories.

It is about people, stories, and how a nation learns to understand itself.

And that is something worth getting right.

Article supplied with thanks to Christian Media & Arts Australia.

Reverend Tim Costello, Chief Advocate for the Alliance for Gambling Reform, reveals the staggering scale of gambling harm in Australia. From pokies to sports betting, Australians are losing billions, and the consequences are devastating.

The Scale of Gambling Losses

Australia loses $32 billion each year to gambling, the highest per capita in the world. Tim explained: “The nation that comes second in gambling losses is 30% less than us. The world looks at us and asks, how did we allow this?”

Pokies account for $17 billion, sports betting $6 billion, with horse racing and greyhounds adding more. Even more shocking: “We have 20% of all the world’s pokies, but 75% are in pubs and clubs. Everywhere else, pokies are only in casinos.”

Unlike casinos, pokies are everywhere: in pubs, clubs, and even shopping areas. Australians often gamble unintentionally, with machines designed for predatory addiction.

The Impact on Families and Young People

The reach of gambling goes beyond adults. Tim highlighted a growing problem among youth: “Influencers are paid by the pokies industry to show how fun it is to feed cash into machines.”

Combined with 900 gambling ads a day on free-to-air TV, many children are absorbing adult gambling behaviours. “Eighty per cent of ten-year-olds now know the odds on AFL and NRL games,” Tim said. “The normalisation is devastating.”

What Can Be Done?

Advocacy is key. Tim outlined practical steps:

• Pokies: Lobby state politicians. Each state has jurisdiction.
• Sports betting: Contact federal representatives, especially the Communications Minister.

“Get boots on the ground. Send letters. Touch base with your politicians,” Tim urged. Western Australia sets a strong example, with no pokies in pubs or clubs and much lower gambling losses.

A Call for National Reform

Despite bipartisan support for a national gambling regulator, recommendations remain ignored. “We need to treat gambling as a health issue, not a sports issue,” Tim said. “Where there’s gambling in a family, there’s four times more domestic violence.”

Public support is overwhelming: 80% of Australians want gambling ads banned, yet action is lagging. “Politicians need to listen. The public has spoken,” Tim added.

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.

Feature image: Canva

Coober Pedy’s Catacomb Church is unlike most other churches in Australia, carved out of a hillside in the opal mining capital of the world.
And although the church has found a way to beat the extreme heat of the desert, Catacomb Church isn’t immune from the realities of operating in a remote part of Australia.

Pastor Dave Wood and his wife Margaret joined the church 18 months ago as its full-time ministry couple, ironically after a 30 year career as a mining engineer.

He says that he seemed destined to wind up in the outback following a decision to enter ministry full-time.

Bush Church Aid is an organisation that is dedicated to ensuring the gospel message is available to everyone living in remote and regional Australia.

Partnering predominantly with Anglican Dioceses, BCA helps to provide gospel workers in the outback, support those bush locations through prayer and ensure that experienced clergy and other volunteers are available to pastorally care for those in the field.

Without the support of Bush Church Aid, churches like Catacomb Church would struggle to keep the doors open in remote areas.

“Our church has around 12 regular members, but then in the tourist season it goes up to 30 or 35,” Dave said. “There’s no way we could afford a minister. So there’s ourselves and about 40 other churches around Australia supported by BCA.”

Dave says that the support of BCA not only keeps the doors of the church open, but enables him and wife Margaret to get out in the community.

“ The days of people just walking into the church is long over, you’ve got to go out to them. You’ve got to go to their church. So myself and Margie join a lot of things. 

“Margie’s in the historical society and she helps out at the drive-in. So we have South Australia’s last drive-in and we’re both on the committee for the drive-in, which is a load of fun. 

“I’m part of the SES and I do a Christian radio show, Dusty Radio, so it’s all about being arms and legs.”

“We had a mission group not long ago do some work down in the Aboriginal community, and they were so thankful. It was such a wonderful opportunity to reach out to a fairly hurting minority, to be honest. 

“Doing stuff in the community is really impactful, and then you get to have those conversations.”

If you happen to find yourself in Coober Pedy, you can visit the Catacomb Church at Lot 746 Catacomb Road.

You can also visit the Bush Church Aid website to find out more about serving with, or supporting the work of BCA in regional and remote Australia.

Article supplied with thanks to 96five.

Feature image: Supplied and Used with Permission 

When George left Syria as a refugee, he wasn’t sure what to expect from Australia: would it look like the postcards with koalas, kangaroos and beaches?

Would he feel homesick from the cultural whiplash?

Originally from Aleppo, George fled Syria in 2015 amid rising violence and religious persecution. 

He remembers his mum supporting the move, because she didn’t want another family member to die.

“I’d lost my dad when I was younger,” George said.

“Mum said, ‘have lost my husband already, I can’t afford losing my children.’”

George relocated to Lebanon before being granted permission to move to Australia in 2017.

“I touched the tiles on the Opera House to make sure it was real,” George said.

“Australia is a new place that we call home now.

“There is no better word to explain that: Australia is home [and] it is safe.”

Settling into a new country brought its share of challenges — from learning a new language to adjusting to unfamiliar customs – but with determination and the support of the community, George found his footing. 

He not only completed his studies in engineering but graduated at the top of his class, specialising in mechatronics and robotics.

“I’m happy,” George said. “I’m grateful and thankful many, many times over [to] have a life I only ever dreamed of.”

Now a refugee advocate, George is passionate about changing perceptions of those who move to Australia.

“The difference between a person who is refugee like me and a person who is an Australian citizen born and raised here, is just the place we are born and nothing else,” George said.

To make Australia feel like home for refugees comes down to being “welcoming and giving opportunities”.

“It’s most important,” George said.

“Because look at all the achievements I have done within a very short period of time.”

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

Feature image: Canva

About the Author: Laura Bennett is a media professional, broadcaster and writer from Sydney, Australia.

With the big day happening tomorrow May 3, 2025, Australians are making their final decisions about who they’ll vote for.

In an interview with political analyst Max Jeganathan about voting with confidence, this election day, he encourages Australians to take a closer look.

Max encourages us to do “a little bit of due diligence without needing to do extensive research… at least having a look at the two major parties and what the two possible governments are offering is a helpful way to allocate your preferences.”

By taking your vote seriously, regardless of the outcome, you’re contributing to a robust democratic system.

Understanding Australia’s voting system

Australia’s preferential voting system offers voters a unique dual opportunity: selecting a local representative while also influencing who forms the national government.

Your local representative:

“Give your first preference to the local candidate that you want to represent you,” Max recommends.

This person will be your voice in Parliament House, Canberra, representing your community’s interests and values.

The bigger picture:

Through preference allocation, you also have a say on who becomes Prime Minister and forms government.

“How preferences are allocated will determine who’s the Prime Minister,” Max said, and explained that these secondary choices are just as important as the primary vote.

The importance of preference allocation

Random ordering of preferences on your ballot might seem tempting, especially when experiencing election fatigue, but thoughtful consideration of your entire ballot matters.

Your preferences ensure that even if your first-choice candidate isn’t successful, your vote still contributes meaningfully to the outcome.

Australia’s compulsory voting system tends to prevent extreme political shifts, resulting in governance that typically comes “from the centre right or the centre left.”

This balanced approach is one of the strengths of our democratic system, Max explained.

Approaching the ballot box with purpose and perspective means you’re actively participating in shaping Australia’s future.

Balancing personal and community interests

When deciding how to vote, it’s important to consider both your immediate circumstances and the broader community’s needs.

“We should be voting for the issues that are directly relevant to us and those around us while balancing that with… issues that are relevant to others,” Max said.

This balanced approach recognises that democratic participation isn’t merely about personal benefit — it’s about contributing to collective welfare.

Policies on taxation, social welfare, health and education have ripple effects across all segments of society, making a holistic perspective vital.

Local and national issues: two sides of the same coin

Local and national priorities are inherently interconnected, Max explained.

“We need to think about what is in our families and communities and link that with… national issues like taxation and foreign affairs.”

Local economic conditions are influenced by international policy decisions, including “announcements on tariffs… [and] trade wars.”

Similarly, essential services like health and education require alignment between local governance and national frameworks.

Even amid election tensions, traditions like the “democracy sausage” remind us of the communal aspects of voting.

Considering character and integrity

When evaluating candidates, Max encourages Aussies to look beyond specific policy positions to assess their character and integrity.

“For me, character is very important because we just don’t know what’s going to happen out there,” he said and explained that in an unpredictable world, adaptable and principled leaders are better equipped to navigate unforeseen challenges.

Consider whether candidates demonstrate integrity, accountability, and empathy — traits that suggest they’ll act responsibly and ethically when facing difficult decisions.

Embracing democracy’s role in nation building

Democracy serves as a catalyst for unity, balancing individual freedoms with collective governance challenges, Max explained.

Even amid election tensions, traditions like the “democracy sausage” remind us of the communal aspects of voting.

The essence of responsible citizenship

Ancient Greeks classified citizens into three categories: the indifferent “idiots,” self-centred “tribalists,” and engaged “true citizens,” Max explained.

True citizens “acted, engaged, and voted in a way that went to the flourishing of the broader community.”

By taking your vote seriously, regardless of the outcome, you’re contributing to a robust democratic system.

Even in times when “hopelessness and despair… [are] in high supply,” your thoughtful participation matters.

Both major political parties possess a “relatively competent political class” deserving of consideration rather than dismissal.

Finding value in political stability

While some may find current campaigns underwhelming, there’s value in political stability, especially during uncertain global times.

“Underwhelming stability might not actually be so bad” Max believes, when navigating complex societal challenges.

Both major political parties possess a “relatively competent political class” deserving of consideration rather than dismissal.

This perspective allows voters to focus on substantial governance issues rather than campaign theatrics.

Final thoughts for election day

As you prepare to cast your vote tomorrow, consider taking a moment to:

• Research your local candidates thoroughly
• Thoughtfully allocate your preferences
• Balance your personal interests with community needs
• Consider both local and national implications of your choice
• Evaluate candidates’ character alongside their policies
• Pray about your decision

By approaching the ballot box with purpose and perspective, you’re not just fulfilling an obligation – you’re actively participating in shaping Australia’s future.

Your voice matters, and your informed choice contributes to the collective strength of our democracy.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

Feature image: Photo by Canva

About the Author: Joni Boyd is a writer, based in the Hawkesbury Region of NSW. She is passionate about the power of stories shared, to transform lives.

Australians will head to the poll booths on May 3, 2025.

And with less than a month until Election Day, political parties are well into a fierce battle over key issues such as cost of living, healthcare and climate action.

The announcement

At a press conference in Sydney, Albanese highlighted the significance of this upcoming election, urging Australians to think about their future.

“This election is a choice between Labor’s plan to keep building or Peter Dutton’s promise to cut,” he said. “That is the choice, that is your choice. Only Labor is acting on the cost of living. Only a vote for Labor will keep your wages growing.”

The response

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s opening response speech outlined his plans.

“Under Labor, Australia’s had the biggest fall in living standards in the developed world,” he said. “Labor’s economic policies and waste and spending have increased the cost of living for everyday Australians.

“Australians are now paying on average 18 per cent more for rent, 30 per cent more for groceries and over 30 per cent more for power and gas.”

How to vote

As is customary, voting in the Australian Federal Election is compulsory for all citizens aged 18 and over. Australians will need to visit their designated polling place between 8am and 6pm on May 3, 2025. Voters will be required to cast their votes in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.

For those who are unable to vote in person on Election Day, alternative options are available. Early voting will be available from April 22, 2025, and voters can also request a postal vote if they are unable to attend a polling place on the day. More information at aec.gov.au/voting.

Additionally, Australians living abroad can participate by voting at Australian embassies and consulates through overseas voting. More information at aec.gov.au/overseas.

The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) has urged all eligible voters to ensure they are enrolled ahead of the election and to familiarise themselves with the voting process to ensure their vote is counted. Visit aec.gov.au to enrol, or to check and update your enrolment.

If you require additional support when you vote, visit aec.gov.au/assistance.

“Vote based on your Christian values” says ACL

Faith leaders say it’s important that Australian Christians take time to pray in the leadup to any election, and to think about their vote through the lens of their faith.

“Our nation so desperately needs [Christian values] right now,” said Australian Christian Lobby CEO Michelle Pearse. “The best thing you can do is be informed, and especially coming up to election time, you’ve got to make sure you vote based on your Christian values.”

Visit aec.gov.au for more.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

Feature image: Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash

About the Author: Joni Boyd is a writer, based in the Hawkesbury Region of NSW. She is passionate about the power of stories shared, to transform lives.