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.

This report showcases how biotechnologies are increasingly being applied across food supply chains, provide value-added opportunities in traditional agriculture and develop new food production systems. The report positions emerging biotechnologies and biomanufacturing as Australia’s best and under-appreciated opportunity to strengthen food security and national resilience, while also opening up substantial economic opportunities.

Australian migration has recently been extremely volatile. Currently, there are two main criticisms of the Australian Government’s migration policies. This paper reviews the evidence and draws conclusions. It finds that the post-pandemic surge in net overseas migration was driven by global forces more than local ones.

Australia is experiencing declining support for major parties, rising electoral success for independents and minor parties, and increasing public concern about the responsiveness of its democratic institutions. This paper examines the implications of these shifts, including recent federal election trends, emerging public attitudes towards minority governments and historical examples of parliamentary adaptation.

This paper explores an approach to map civic volunteering opportunities across Australia. The findings reveal regional inequalities, with most opportunities concentrated in capital cities and coastal regions. By identifying where engagement opportunities are lacking, this work offers an evidence base for targeted policy, funding and civic renewal strategies.