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24 MAR 2026
Understanding how Australians think about the threats and opportunities, including common-sense actions to renew trust in politics
Australia’s democracy was built to ensure that everyday people have real power over the decisions that impact their lives. But as technology rapidly changes the way citizens get information, and democratic norms are challenged around the world, it’s time for an honest assessment of how Australians feel our democracy is working.
This report is the foundational evidence that is guiding a new civil society campaign: Democracy Counts.
Democracy Counts is a growing alliance of organisations and Australians who care about the way democracy functions in Australia. Partners include the Centre for Public Integrity, Digital Rights Watch, the Local and Independent News Association and the Alliance for Journalists’ Freedom.
The research presented in this report was commissioned by McKinnon and undertaken in 2025 by Essential Research. It details what Australians think about our democracy and its core features, and which solutions to improve our democracy have the most support. By understanding where the public is at and what they want, Democracy Counts seeks to elevate a push for reforms to our democracy that can renew it and put people first.
EXPLORE MORE FROM MCKINNON
Leadership
The quality of Australia’s political leadership directly impacts our nation’s ability to address complex challenges and seize opportunities. That is why we invest in building and celebrating exceptional Leaders.
Public Sector
The effectiveness of Australia’s public sector directly impacts our nation’s productivity and success. That is why we invest in developing measurable frameworks that drive impact and making research and resources accessible and useable.
Policy Innovation
Australia faces specific challenges that require fresh thinking and proven solutions. From education inequality to economic productivity, we need policy approaches that work - not just in theory, but in practice. That’s why we focus on finding and implementing the best policy innovation to accelerate progress and build trust.