There's a growing public disenchantment with democracy and the modern political process. So, here's a solution: citizens’ juries—ordinary people who are given the information and training to make decisions on civic issues. It’s all part of an approach known as deliberative democracy, aiming to build stronger and more useful connections. But, do these measures work...

The Sydney Citizens’ Jury unanimously agrees that the safety and vibrancy of Sydney’s nightlife would be further enhanced by the adoption of the recommendations detailed in this report. The recommendations cover the following areas of diversity, transport, police and safety, education and media, lockouts and licensing.

This report explores the role of citizens' committees in Australian local government decision-making processes. The report will be a useful resource for councils looking to enhance the effectiveness of community committees. Committee types include both council-appointed committees, and incorporated non-for-profit organisations. The study explored the role and future of citizens' committees as vehicles for sustained...

In February of 2001, Australia hosted its second national Deliberative Poll titled, Australia deliberates: reconciliation-where from here? As a social experiment, this Australian Deliberative Poll aimed to gauge the opinion of Indigenous and Non-Indigenous representatives on reconciliation. Australian reconciliation is a national cause in search of attaining cultural harmony and equality amongst its Aboriginal and...

Theorists have also suggested that the natural environment will be a likely beneficiary of deliberative democarcy, given the inherent rationality in supporting interests that will lead to the long-term survival of the planet. Ivan Zwart addresses the question of general environmental interests through two case studies in Australian local government and argues there are at...