The Wire

Australians are wealthier, more secure but most surprisingly, more progressive now than ten years ago, according to the first major study of social attitudes since the Howard Government came to power. Released today, Australian Social Attitudes: The First Report details a number of trends that might not have been expected under a conservative government. While more Australians take pride in a strong economy and feel secure in their jobs, there’s been a move away from social conservatism, with higher numbers of people supporting immigration and recognising broader definitions of families. And though it may seem strange under a longstanding Liberal government, the vast majority of Australians believe the government should provide most major services instead of privatizing them, especially health and education. Gabrielle Marr is a Senior Lecturer in Political Economy at Sydney University and a contributer to the report. She spoke to Bill Birtles about the general trends in the way Australians think.