Description
Discover how neoliberalism in Australia affects community, work, and empathy. Learn how reforms can promote civic life and shared prosperity.
Introduction
Australia has long prided itself on values of mateship, equality, and a fair go for all. Yet, these ideals are increasingly threatened by the rise of neoliberal policies prioritising competition, individualism, and deregulation over community and solidarity.
This article examines the fundamental clash between our innate human traits of empathy and altruism with the neoliberal framework dominating Australian politics. By understanding the roots of this tension and exploring solutions, we can chart a path toward a more compassionate and fair society.
Dominant Human Traits vs. Neoliberal Individualism
The Ultrasocial Nature of Humans
Humans are uniquely ultrasocial, thriving in collaborative and empathetic environments. Traits such as altruism, kindness, and shared purpose are central to survival and well-being. According to studies on human behaviour, over 70% of people strongly prefer fairness and community benefit over personal gain.
These traits have historically defined Australian communities, from grassroots activism to national solidarity during crises such as bushfires and floods.

However, neoliberalism in Australia presents a starkly opposing view. Promoting the myth of the “self-made” individual celebrates self-interest and competition as virtues. This ideology assumes humans are primarily selfish and greedy, reducing complex social dynamics to transactional relationships.
It denies the importance of collective effort and the innate human need for connection, creating a distorted framework for society and governance.
Neoliberalism’s Contradiction of Humanity

Neoliberalism in Australia has reshaped society by embedding values into every aspect of life, often at odds with dominant human traits. This has led to significant societal challenges:
1. Privatisation of Public Services: Neoliberal policies have prioritised profits over people, leading to underfunded healthcare, education, and public infrastructure.
2. Economic Inequality: Deregulated markets and tax policies favouring corporations have widened the gap between the wealthy and the average Australian.
3. Isolation and Loneliness: The erosion of communal spaces and support systems has contributed to a mental health crisis, with 1 in 4 Australians experiencing loneliness.
The disconnect between neoliberal values and human nature has resulted in widespread dissatisfaction, with many Australians feeling alienated from their communities and the political process.
The Erosion of Civic Life in Australia
Loss of Public Spaces and Civic Engagement
Civic life — where people gather, share ideas, and form bonds — has been systematically undermined by neoliberalism. Public spaces such as community centres, libraries, and parks are crucial for fostering connection and solidarity. However, these spaces are increasingly under threat:
– Funding Cuts: Federal and state budgets prioritise corporate subsidies and tax cuts over investments in public infrastructure. For example, funding for public libraries in Australia has declined by over 20% in the past decade, leaving many communities without accessible gathering spaces.
– Privatisation of Public Housing: Over the past 40 years, the privatisation of public housing has displaced vulnerable Australians, disrupted community networks, and increased homelessness.
– Youth Services Decline: Youth centres and programs that once provided safe spaces for young people have been defunded, leaving fewer opportunities for meaningful engagement and development.
Without these communal spaces, Australians are left isolated, unable to participate in civic activities that strengthen democracy and community resilience.
Consumerism as a Substitute for Community
Neoliberalism in Australia encourages consumerism as a means of fulfilment, replacing meaningful human connections with material possessions. Australians spend more time engaging with screens than interacting with neighbours, with 70% of adults using social media daily. This shift has profound consequences:
– Superficial Interactions: Social media fosters shallow connections, eroding the deep relationships necessary for emotional and social well-being.
– Distraction from Civic Issues: Constant bombardment with advertisements and entertainment diverts attention from pressing political and social challenges.
– Economic Pressure: The emphasis on consumerism fuels financial stress, with Australians holding over $1.8 trillion in household debt, the second highest globally.
This focus on individual consumption over collective well-being perpetuates isolation and diminishes the sense of community vital for a thriving democracy.
Rebuilding Community and Democracy in Australia
Participatory Democracy at the Local Level
To counter the isolation and disconnection fostered by neoliberalism in Australia, we must invest in community-led initiatives that empower citizens and revitalise civic life. Key strategies include:
1. Neighbourhood Assemblies: Create inclusive forums where residents can deliberate on local issues, ensuring all voices are heard. These assemblies promote accountability and shared decision-making.
2. Revitalising Civic Spaces: Increase funding for public libraries, youth centres, and parks to provide accessible venues for community engagement.
3. Participatory Budgeting: Let communities decide how public funds are distributed, ensuring resources address local needs and priorities.
These measures foster collaboration, rebuild trust in institutions, and empower citizens to shape their communities actively.
Redefining Work in Australia
Work is central to human identity and purpose, yet neoliberalism in Australia has devalued it by prioritising profits over people. To restore dignity and fulfilment in work, Australia must:
1. Introduce Universal Basic Income (UBI): UBI provides financial security, reduces reliance on exploitative gig work, and allows Australians to pursue meaningful careers.
2. Adopt a Four-Day Workweek: Shorter workweeks improve work-life balance, enhance productivity, and create more time for civic engagement.
3. Promote Ethical Employment: Encourage industries that prioritise social benefits, such as healthcare, education, and renewable energy, to create jobs that align with shared values.
These reforms ensure work contributes to individual and societal well-being rather than perpetuating inequality and isolation.
Crafting a New Narrative for Australia
To move beyond neoliberalism, Australia needs a unifying story that reflects our shared values of empathy, community, and sustainability. This new narrative should:
1. Celebrate Community Heroes: Highlight individuals and organisations making a positive impact, inspiring collective action.
2. Advocate for the Commons: Promote policies that protect shared resources, ensuring they help communities rather than private interests.
3. Embrace Sustainability: Frame degrowth as an opportunity for fair development, reducing environmental harm while improving quality of life.
By redefining success as collective well-being rather than GDP growth, this narrative can inspire Australians to rebuild a society grounded in compassion and cooperation.
Summary
Neoliberalism in Australia has eroded the foundations of society, prioritising individualism and competition over community and solidarity. This has led to the decline of civic spaces, the rise of isolation, and a loss of meaning in work.
However, by investing in participatory democracy, redefining work, and crafting a new narrative, Australia can reclaim its values of empathy and shared prosperity. Together, we can build a society that reflects our innate human traits and creates a fair go for all.
Question for Readers
How can Australia redefine its policies to reflect our values of empathy and community better? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Call to Action
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Reference
Humanity’s operating system has been infected: https://johnmenadue.com/humanitys-operating-system-has-been-infected/