16 Apr 2026
NewsStatement: Racism report is a ‘flashing red light’ for social cohesion and Australian democracy
A new Australian Human Rights Commission report confirms what we have been seeing in our work alongside communities: racism in Australia has reached crisis point.
Published this week, as part of the Seen & Heard project, The struggle to be seen, the power in being heard report is a flashing red light for our democracy and for social cohesion. Based on consultations with hundreds of Australians and dozens of organisations, it found that racism against Jewish, Muslim, Palestinian and Arab communities has sharply escalated since October 7, 2023, become more normalised, and is causing serious harm to people’s mental health, safety and sense of belonging.
SSI solemnly welcomes the report, which affirms what we see every day. The “fair go” contract for millions of Australians has effectively collapsed, replaced by a widespread and now documented fear of personal attack and structural racism. Racism is baked into our structures and systems, driving division and unequal opportunity based on personal characteristics like race and religion.
People from all backgrounds should be able to participate fully in Australian society, free from discrimination and hate, and with equal access to work, education, services and a sense of belonging. We cannot achieve true social cohesion without addressing racism and the structures that perpetuate it.
We already have a comprehensive national roadmap to address racism in all its forms. The National Anti-Racism Framework was built on extensive consultation and proven solutions, yet it has been sitting on a shelf for 18 months while racism in Australia hits boiling point.
When racism and division are deepening, silence is not a neutral position. Governments must be willing to name and address the problem if we are serious about solving it. There has never been a more pressing need for action.
If we want an Australia where everyone belongs, we must create systems that protect that belonging. That starts with committing to fully fund and implement the National Anti-Racism Framework without delay.
Read the full report from the Australian Human Rights Council: https://humanrights.gov.au/resource-hub/by-resource-type/reports/race/the-struggle-to-be-seen,-the-power-in-being-heard
