In a nation as vast and diverse as Australia, our experiences, cultures, and values shape our unique perspectives. What I see as a priority may not even be on someone else’s radar, and vice versa. That’s the beauty of perception, it’s deeply personal yet shaped by our shared environment. But to truly grow as individuals and as a society, we must be willing to listen, not just to respond, but to understand.
As an independent Councillor and Deputy Mayor of the Sutherland Shire, I’ve seen first-hand how different viewpoints create richer, more inclusive conversations. When we take the time to hear each other, we begin to see the world through different lenses. The challenge is that too often, we are stuck in echo chambers, reinforcing what we already believe instead of being open to new insights.
The Numbers: Who Represents Us?
Australia is home to over 26 million people, with 8 million residing in New South Wales (NSW) and over 230,000 in the Sutherland Shire. Our Sutherland Shire local government consists of 15 councillors, each elected to represent a fraction of those 230,000 people. Already, you can see that no single councillor speaks for everyone.
Looking at a Federal level, the numbers become even more interesting. The Australian Parliament is dominated by two major parties:
- Labor Party: 77 seats in the House of Representatives
- Liberal Party (with Coalition partners): 53 seats
Even though these parties form our government, their membership numbers tell a different story:
- Labor Party Membership (2020 estimate): 60,085 members nationwide
- Liberal Party Membership: Estimates suggest similar figures, though exact numbers are undisclosed. I’ve heard approx 11,000 in NSW.
That means in a nation of 26 million, only a tiny percentage of people are actively members of the major parties shaping our policies. If these two parties represent a small segment of Australians, then what about the rest? What about the millions of people who do not fit neatly into those party ideologies?
The Independent Perspective: Why More Voices Matter
At the Sutherland Shire Council, we have:
- 6 Liberal councillors
- 5 Labor councillors
- 4 independents (including myself)
Even in our own council, independent voices make up a minority, yet they often bring some of the most diverse perspectives. Without a party structure dictating my decisions, I have the freedom to listen, reflect, and act based on what I believe is truly best for our community. That isn’t to say that the party members aren’t doing the same thing for what they or their party think are the best thing for the community.
The problem is, many decisions at local, state, and national levels are made within a closed framework, with party politics often taking precedence over individual perspectives. But if only a fraction of Australians are party members, how many voices are being left unheard?
Perception and Uniqueness: Seeing the World Through Different Eyes
We often underestimate how much perception shapes our understanding of the world. What one person sees as a crisis, another might view as an opportunity. A policy that benefits some may unintentionally harm others. Perception is influenced by:
- Personal experiences (e.g., growing up in wealth vs. poverty)
- Education and upbringing
- Cultural background
- Community engagement and exposure to different ideas
I believe that no single person or political party holds all the answers. The best solutions come from a diversity of thought. But that requires active listening, a skill that is increasingly rare in today’s world, where social media and political debates often prioritise argument over understanding.
Why Listening Matters More Than Ever
If we acknowledge that the major political parties only represent a small fraction of Australians, then it follows that there are millions of perspectives out there waiting to be heard.
When I sit in council meetings, I don’t just listen to those who agree with me. I listen to those who challenge me, who see the world differently, because growth happens in discomfort. The more we listen, the more we begin to see the world in ways we never imagined.
Imagine how much better our policies and leadership could be if we prioritised representation over party loyalty. Imagine what we could achieve if we valued diverse perspectives, not as obstacles, but as keys to innovation and progress.
Moving Forward – What Can We Do?
Be open to diverse perspectives – Instead of dismissing someone’s view outright, take a moment to ask, “Why do they see it that way?”
Step outside our echo chambers – Read, listen, and engage with ideas that challenge your own.
Encourage independent voices in leadership – More representation outside of party structures means more unique viewpoints in decision-making.
Promote real dialogue – Instead of debating to “win,” aim to understand.
The way I see the world is shaped by my experiences, just like the way you see the world is shaped by yours. We all hold a piece of the puzzle, but we only see the full picture when we bring our perspectives together.
If our political system is dominated by a handful of voices, then we must do the work to amplify those who are not heard. Because in the end, democracy isn’t about one perspective winning – it’s about building a society where every perspective is valued.
And that starts with listening!
