Democratic representation in a multicultural society

As Australian democracy grapples with a growing crisis of representation, it is time to ask: who is seen, who is heard, and who remains invisible? How can our political system foster inclusion, equity, and legitimacy—not only in parliament, but across the broader public sphere? This event explores how Australia's democratic institutions can better reflect the voices of its culturally, linguistically, and religiously diverse communities. This conversation brings together academics and practitioners to share insights, experiences, and strategies for strengthening political representation in Australia.

Featuring

Ilo Diaz has worked directly with communities affected by human rights violations in Melbourne, South America, and Palestine. With a background in human rights monitoring in conflict zones, Ilo along with Dr Tamar Hopkins, started the Centre Against Racial Profiling to push back on racialised policing and systemic racism in Australia.

Emily Foley works with the Centre for Deliberative Democracy and at Flinders University, with a research focus on Australian politics and migration studies. She also coordinates the Sudanese Australian Integrated Learning (SAIL) Program and is a co-convenor of Melbourne Free University, contributing to community-based education and advocacy.

David Nolan is an Associate Professor in the School of Arts and Communication at the University of Canberra, and a member of the News & Media Research Centre. His research engages with the role played by media in the politics of belonging and social exclusion, and explores challenges and possibilities for more just and inclusive media institutions and practices. 

Moderated by Chris Wallace, Professor of Politics at the University of Canberra and former Canberra Press Gallery journalist, whose incisive scholarship and commentary on Australian politics have earned her recognition as one of the country’s leading thinkers.