JOINT STATEMENT: Civil society coalition calls for leadership grounded in compassion, unity and respect
Tuesday, 3 March 2026: As Federal Parliament returns this week, we join together as a broad coalition of humanitarian, human rights, and faith-based organisations to call on all sides of politics to demonstrate responsible leadership in public discourse, and help foster calm, unity, and mutual understanding at a time of heightened tension.
Australia is facing a moment of profound challenge, with increasingly polarised debate risking the erosion of a shared space in which diverse views can coexist – a foundation of our democracy. In difficult times, the rule of law, presumption of innocence, principles of non-discrimination and human rights norms are not optional – they are essential. They provide the moral framework that guides us to act with decency, protects the vulnerable, and ensures we remain a society defined by inclusion rather than division.
We are deeply concerned by proposals, laws, and rhetoric that risk undermining these principles, including measures that would exclude people on the basis of nationality or background, deny the rights of Australian citizens, and potentially criminalise principled advocacy. Policies and public statements must reflect Australia’s longstanding commitment to non-discrimination, fairness, and our international obligations. Upholding these standards strengthens both our national character and our global standing.
Recent events, including the violent attack at Bondi Beach, have deeply affected communities across the country. In moments of grief and fear, it is natural that emotions run high. But these are precisely the moments when careful, responsible leadership matters most, when listening, empathy, and restraint can help bring people together rather than drive them apart.
Particularly at a time of heightened division, it is vital to uphold respect for people of all faiths and secular or non-religious beliefs alike. This mutual respect is essential to maintaining the inclusive, democratic society to which Australia aspires.
As a diverse coalition representing communities across Australia, we urge all political leaders to recommit to respectful dialogue and to principles that have long guided Australia. By choosing compassion over division and unity over fear, we can ensure Australia remains a place where every person is treated with dignity and where our shared humanity defines our path forward.
Signatories:
Act for Peace
ActionAid Australia
Amnesty International Australia
Australian Childhood Foundation
Australian Council for International Development
Australian National Imams Council
Caritas Australia
Human Rights Law Centre
Human Rights Watch
Jewish Council of Australia
Justice and Equity Centre
MAA International
National Council of Churches in Australia
Oxfam Australia
Plan International Australia
Refugee Council of Australia
Results International Australia
Save the Children Australia
