Speaking of Social Justice: Recent Episodes
Justice and Peace Office (JPO)
Our host Julie Macken will welcome a new guest each week to critically and philosophically discuss the many social justice issues we face today though the lens of Catholic Social Teaching (CST). 'Speaking of Social Justice' aims to give its audience a greater insight into the economic, social, political, cultural, and spiritual underpinnings of domestic and international affairs. The Justice and Peace Office (JPO) welcomes you to join this ongoing journey of learning, self-examination, and consciousness raising in order to become a strong ally in the social justice movement.
In this week’s episode of Speaking of Social Justice, Julie Macken challenges Australia’s narrow view of national security. While policymakers pour billions into defence and submarines, real security, climate resilience, housing, health, equality, and community wellbeing, remains dangerously neglected.
Julie asks the questions few in power dare to:
What would national security look like if it actually kept Australians safe from the threats we know are coming—climate catastrophe, pandemics, cyber warfare, and social inequality?
Why are we investing in weapons instead of in people, ecosystems, and the planet that sustains us?
It’s time to redefine security, not as militarisation, but as protection for our communities, our environment, and our shared future.
In this episode of Speaking of Social Justice, Dr Julie Macken explores the alarming findings of the federal government’s climate impact report and the hidden intelligence reports they chose not to release. While Australians were told about rising temperatures, collapsing fish stocks, and dire environmental futures, the government kept quiet about the geopolitical fallout across our region. Macken unpacks what this silence means: displacement of entire nations like Tuvalu and Kiribati, food and water crises in Indonesia, and the prospect of hundreds of millions facing unliveable conditions near our doorstep. Her call is urgent: Australia needs a real national security plan and not just for defence, but for climate collapse, biodiversity loss, displacement, cyber warfare, and inequality. Without it, the choices ahead could be catastrophic. This isn’t about fear. It’s about preparation, compassion, and the kind of country we want to be when the crisis hits.
In this week's episode of Speaking of Social Justice, Dr Julie Macken delves into the seismic development in Australia's national security landscape from ASIO, confirming that Iran, through its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, orchestrated anti-semetic attacks on Australian soil. In response, Albanese has expelled Iran's ambassador, suspended operations at the Tehran embassy, and initiated steps to list the IRGC as a terrorist organisation. Macken goes further and argues that Chris Minns knew and it is time for an apology. It is time to apologise to the pro-palestine groups that were blamed in the process. It is time for a repeal of the hateful legislation that followed and the fabrication of events thereafter. This is how democracy stops being democracy. One step, one removal of our freedom.
In this episode, Dr Julie Macken shares the story behind Sydney’s first Peace Picnic, happening on 31 August at Wentworth Common, Sydney Olympic Park.
She talks about why, in a world full of conflict, from Gaza and Ukraine to rising domestic violence and community divisions at home, people are looking for a simple, peaceful way to come together. Julie explains how a humble picnic can be a powerful response to despair, offering connection, music, meaningful conversations, and a sense of solidarity when so many of us feel powerless.
This isn’t about politics or religion. It’s about ordinary people showing up for peace in our homes, communities, and world. Learn how you can be part of this small but powerful act of hope here: picnicforpeace.org
In this week's episode, Dr Julie Macken confronts the emotional and spiritual toll of witnessing injustice; from the horrors unfolding in Gaza to the growing despair in Australian communities. She explores the concept of moral injury, the deep internal wound that arises when we witness atrocities we cannot stop, and its ripple effects on our collective wellbeing. Julie also offers a hopeful path forward: community-based political action as a remedy for despair and a source of healing and reconnection.
This episode is a call to feel, to reflect, and most importantly, to act.
Find Julie's book here.
This week on Speaking of Social Justice, Dr Julie Macken dives deep into three major news stories; one dominating headlines, the others barely noticed. While the world devours every detail of the Victorian “death cap mushroom murder,” two seismic reports about Australia’s treatment of First Nations people, historic genocide in Victoria and systemic racism in the NT police, barely register. Why?Julie unpacks how the media shapes what we care about, but also how our clicks reinforce the stories we see. Is it discomfort, denial, or something deeper? It’s a sharp, sobering reflection on what stories we prioritise and what that says about us as a nation.
In this week's episode of Speaking of Social Justice, we bring to you a special post-pentecost reflection where Dr Michael Walker challenges the myths of modern freedom and fulfilment. Speaking from the historic St Peter’s Church in Surry Hills, where Mary MacKillop and Eileen O’Connor once prayed, Michael explores how social media-fuelled consumerism has seduced us into lifestyles of overwork, isolation, and ecological harm.
Marking 10 years since the promulgation of Laudato Si’, this episode unpacks what it means to live well without living large. Drawing from Catholic tradition, Scripture, and his own lived experience of giving up his car, Michael makes a passionate and practical case for “the grace of enough”; where deeper relationships, radical simplicity, and spiritual clarity offer a more life-giving path than lifestyle creep ever could.
From Viktor Frankl to Francis de Sales, copper mines to Instagram influencers, this episode is a tour de force on faith, consumption, and what it really means to follow Christ in a world addicted to more.
In this week's episode, Dr Julie Macken unpacks the dangerous absurdity of war-making power in Australia. As conflict escalates globally, from Gaza to Ukraine, from Iran to Sudan,Julie calls out the hypocrisy of world leaders, the silence around nuclear stockpiles, and the erosion of public trust in our institutions. But here’s the kicker: in Australia, only one person decides if we go to war, the Prime Minister. No Parliament. No public vote. Not even the party room. From Gaza’s genocide to NATO’s spineless posturing, Julie lays bare the truth behind war powers, the media cycle, and how every Australian has a role to play in restoring democratic decision; making before lives are lost again under the guise of “defence.” Listen in, then ask your MP: Why is only one person allowed to declare war in my name?
This Saturday, June 21st, is the shortest and coldest night of the year, and for many sleeping rough in Sydney, it could be their last. In this stark and urgent episode, Cailey exposes the deadly intersection between homelessness and mental illness in our city. With over 122,000 Australians experiencing homelessness and soaring rates of untreated mental health conditions among them, this is more than a crisis, it’s a moral failure.
As Sydney prepares to gather in Martin Place for a public memorial honouring lives lost on the streets, this episode is both a eulogy and a rallying cry. Who are we, if we let people die in plain sight? Listen in. Show up. Because the real emergency isn’t the cold, it’s our silence.
In this week's episode of Speaking of Social Justice, Dr Julie Macken reflects on the frustration many Australians feel; from climate inaction to the horrors in Gaza.
Why does real change feel so out of reach, even when public support is strong?
Julie explores Australia's role in global emissions, the moral cost of silence, and the deep need for everyday citizens to take up the call for justice. Whether it's demanding a ceasefire, resisting gas expansion, or simply starting a conversation: this episode reminds us that change starts with all of us. Are you in?
In this week's episode of Speaking of Social Justice, Dr. Julie Macken speaks on why the genocide in Gaza is not just a distant humanitarian crisis, it’s a mirror reflecting our own national conscience. She lays out three crucial reasons why Australians must speak up: to safeguard our climate future, to protect our moral integrity, and to reclaim our shared humanity. It’s a wake-up call for action, accountability, and empathy.
What are you willing to stand for?
What does justice look like when viewed through a Catholic lens? The newest Social Justice Facilitator, Pauline Jasudason, leads this conversation, guiding listeners through key principles of Catholic Social Teaching, the historic 1986 address by Pope John Paul II to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference’s 2023–2024 Social Justice Statement on mental health and homelessness. Pauline also reflects on her own formation, from university ministry and immersion trips to journalism and parish life, and how these experiences have deepened her commitment to justice, storytelling, and faith in action.
This episode also features honest, heartfelt reflections about hope and intergenerational healing as we consider what it means to be part of a Church that walks alongside the First Peoples of this land.
In this week's episode of Speaking of Social Justice, Dr Julie Macken speaks plainly about the crisis unfolding in Gaza and Australia’s deafening silence. With 14,000 children facing starvation and international law on the brink, Julie challenges political narratives, unpacks our complicity, and calls for real action. From arms exports to the rejection of asylum seekers, she asks: if we don’t act now, what does that say about us?
what comes after the votes are counted? With Labor claiming a strong majority, Dr Julie Macken celebrates Australia’s rejection of division, but warns that real change won’t come without public pressure. From the legacies of Whitlam and Keating to the present-day crises of climate, inequality, and housing, this episode is a heartfelt call to action: it’s up to us to keep the fire for justice burning.
We apologise to our audio listeners for the static in parts of this episode.
In this urgent pre-election episode, Dr Julie Macken cuts through the noise of campaign slogans to ask a critical question: what actually keeps Australia safe? With one in eight people globally living in conflict zones, and trust in political leadership at a low, she calls out the alarming silence of our major parties on national security. Julie argues that real threats ;pandemics, climate change, cyber attacks, and public distrust, are being ignored. If our leaders won’t act, maybe it’s time we did. Let's call for a bold proposal for a People’s National Security Plan that puts health, trust, climate, and resilience at the heart of our safety.
In this week's episode of Speaking of Social Justice, Dr Julie Macken takes us on a wild, but purposeful, journey from penguins and Trump’s tariffs, to the real and chilling normalisation of violence, abuse, and authoritarianism. As the world watches absurdity unfold, are we laughing ourselves into complacency while human rights are quietly dismantled? Australia's soul is on the line. We must resist normalised cruelty and instead elevate kindness, intelligence, and the rule of law for all.
In this week’s episode, standing in for Dr Julie Macken, Dr Michael Walker explores whether digital platforms can effectively drive social justice. Drawing from personal research, Michael argue that while the internet can be a powerful on-ramp for engagement, like raising awareness and connecting people, lasting political or social change usually requires moving beyond the digital space.
The #MeToo movement is cited as a rare example of spontaneous, online-driven impact. However, most attempts at online organising, including efforts within companies like Google and Amazon, haven’t achieved lasting change. The conclusion? Digital tools are great for starting conversations and attracting interest, but real-world relationships and in-person organising are essential for trust, collaboration, and sustained action.
Julie Macken discusses the Australian budget's lack of support for asylum seekers and refugees, highlighting a 95% decrease in funding from $369 million in 2016-2017 to $20 million, while immigration detention costs have risen to nearly $1.4 billion. She criticises the Labor government for failing to uphold its promise of humane treatment, noting that asylum seekers still lack basic support like Centrelink, housing, and Medicare. Macken argues that the budget's allocation reflects societal values, implying that neglecting vulnerable groups could lead to broader societal mistreatment. She questions whether the upcoming federal election will include anti-asylum seeker rhetoric, suggesting that political parties assume public support for such policies.
Julie Macken discusses the dual crises of floods and drought in Australia, highlighting the emotional toll of climate change. She finds hope in a conversation with Tim Buckley, who believes Australia and China are leading the global transition to a low-carbon economy. Macken argues that despair is a political tool used to exploit fear and division, urging Australians to reject this strategy and embrace community action. She emphasizes that hope is justified, citing existing community efforts in housing, social support, and environmental initiatives as evidence of progress and resilience.
In this week's episode of Speaking of Social justice, Dr Julie Macken discusses the aftermath of a tense Oval Office meeting involving Trump, Vance, and Zelensky, describing it as a bullying incident that has left many feeling traumatised. Julie criticises America's withdrawal from the international order it established, highlighting its impact on global free trade and alliances. Macken mentions Australia's $400 billion investment in nuclear submarines from an unreliable ally, questioning the wisdom of such a commitment. She highlights the need for Australia to re-evaluate its values and international stance as the country prepares for a federal election, urging a focus on courage and endurance rather than bullying.
Dr Julie Macken discusses the importance of facts over feelings in the context of social justice and the upcoming federal election. She expresses concern over recent dismissals of African American anchors in the U.S. media and the threat of mass layoffs of public servants if a coalition wins the election. Julie emphasises the need to evaluate politicians based on their actions and proposals rather than personal feelings or appearances. She later argues that feelings have led to negative consequences in America and urge voters to focus on facts to make informed decisions during the election campaign here in Australia.
Dr Julie Macken is back this week to discuss lack of civics education in Australian schools, defining a good citizen as someone who actively contributes to their community. She highlights the dangers of a dismantled democracy, citing the U.S. example of Trump and Musk undermining democratic institutions. Julie warns of the negative impacts on vulnerable populations and the global economy. She emphasises the importance of vigilance in the upcoming Australian federal elections, urging citizens to be informed, critical, and proactive in protecting democracy against political donations and misinformation, particularly from carbon emitters and the fossil fuel lobby.
In this week's episode of Speaking of Social Justice, Dr Julie Macken discusses the current state of global social justice, particularly the erosion of international human rights protections. She criticises U.S. President Donald Trump for undermining decades of post-WWII international agreements and calls out the mainstream media for failing to challenge his actions. Julie goes on to argue that silence and inaction from global leaders, including Australia's Prime Minister, professional leaders, and religious figures, enable the normalisation of genocide. Macken urges Australians, especially those in positions of power, to speak up against such injustices to prevent history from repeating itself.
To launch Season 4 of Speaking of Social Justice, Dr Julie Macken kicks off by delving into the Trump inauguration and America's corridors of power, retaining hope and compassion during climate change and political hostility, and holding onto Social Justice during these times.
In this week's episode of Speaking of Social Justice, Dr Julie Macken provides another example of why we need a Royal Commission into Immigration Detention and why we need it now! Specifically, Julie divulges how Meriton hotels are used as 'quasi-prisons'.
In this week's Speaking of Social Justice episode, Dr Julie Macken discusses the NSW premier and Prime Minister's response to the Palestine and Israel rallies in Sydney over the weekend. She later goes into how this affects Australia's democracy and our barriers in recreating it.
In this episode of Speaking of Social Justice, Dr Julie Macken highlights Australia's exceptionalism. She discusses how we are so exceptional because we are the only Western democracy without a National Security Plan as well as how we are the only Western democracy without a Bill of Human Rights or any form of human rights protection act.
On this week's Speaking of Social Justice episode, we bring you a special edition from our latest event. On Saturday, August 31st, the Justice & Peace Office Sydney hosted our 2024 Justice and Peace Gathering, breaking down the 2024-25 Social Justice Statement.
Listen as Fr Peter, Promoter of Justice & Peace, poses the question: Justice or Charity?
Dr Julie Macken and Dr Michael Walker engage in a two-part conversation this week about the latest AUKUS "alternative" - a submarine base in Western Australia, but they won't be Australian submarines!
On this week’s episode, Dr Julie Macken talks Democracy! Specifically, how are we, as citizens, able to build a safe democratic space for all of us? A space that is inclusive, a space where we can come to agreements and understandings in an ethical way. Julie poses the question back to our listeners
On this week's episode of Speaking of Social Justice, Cailey Sharp discusses the proposed Youth Justice Bill 2024. Cailey breaks down what this means and how it falls short. She later delves into how the Raise the Age Campaign does more than raise the age from 10 to at least 14; it also will improve our justice system and greater communities with the possibility of reducing crime amongst our youth.
In this episode, Dr Julie Macken discusses the recent events that unfolded in parliament: Senator Fatima Payman crossing the floor of parliament, voting against Labor last week on a Green’s motion to recognise Palestine. Julie commends Senator Payman on her actions while condemning Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the Labour Party on their statements suggesting Australians do not care about the state of Palestine and Australia's involvement with Israel.
On this week's episode of Speaking of Social Justice, Dr Julie Macken invites Dr Michael Walker to discuss Climate Change but more so, where did Australia's exceptionalism come from? The two delve into the time when Australia wasn't so "exceptional", the Rules-Based Order, and the lack of accountability for Australia's climate action.
In honour of Men's Health Week and the JPO's upcoming Annual Sydney Homeless Memorial on june 21st, Cailey Sharp discusses the intersectionality between homelessness and mental health amongst men. Cailey delves into the vicious cycle between the two and how they exacerbate each other. Cailey also draws in on how men are now more likely to develop a fatal substance use disorder with a more direct focus on male suicides.
The global Church is encouraging a shift towards ecological economics. Meanwhile, our Federal and State Governments are both introducing wellbeing budgets that include quality of life measures to counter excessive focus on GDP. On May 24th, the Justice & Peace Office Sydney hosted a Wellbeing Economics Symposium. In it, we discussed these two paradigms, how they overlap, and how we can draw on them in our own work at the grassroots level.
Cailey Sharp & Dr Michael Walker from the Justice & Peace Office Sydney presented the Curious Grace: Care in the community. A case study example of a drop-in centre model designed to improve community wellbeing.
Take a listen!
The global Church is encouraging a shift towards ecological economics. Meanwhile, our Federal and State Governments are both introducing wellbeing budgets that include quality of life measures to counter excessive focus on GDP. On May 24th, the Justice & Peace Office Sydney hosted a Wellbeing Economics Symposium. In it, we discussed these two paradigms, how they overlap, and how we can draw on them in our own work at the grassroots level.
Fr Peter Smith from the Justice & Peace Office Sydney presented his work on Ecological Economics, A Just Economy.
Take a listen!
Dr Julie Macken is back this week to discuss AUKUS again but focusing on Australia's Nuclear waste dilemma. Many of us are understandably hyperfixated on the $400 billion going toward AUKUS. However, very few are discussing how this deal means that we are simulatneously becoming the world's garbage bin. Julie goes on to discuss that since these submarines are nuclear powered, we are expected to and will take the nuclear waste.
Cailey Thurlow nee. Sharp is back this week to delve into the HECS dilemma taking over Australia. In this episode, Cailey recaps the original HECS and how university degrees were free in Australia from 1974 to 1989. This issue affects anyone currently seeking or who has previously sought higher education, with many taking their HECS debts well into their forties-impacting their ability to buy a home on top of the impacts of the cost of living. Cailey later discusses the HECS indexation, summarising what this means for anyone with a HECS debt. E.g., If you are on a $60,000 salary and you have an average HECS debt of $24,771, you would have paid off about $1200 in HECS this year, but your debt would have increased by $1177. Since the first term of the labour government, student HECS debts have increased by 16 and a half per cent... under a Prime Minister who went to university for free. Why does the government collect more from HECS debt than it does from its major fossil fuel tax?
If you would like to petition against the annual increase in HECS debts for both past and present students and make HECS debts easier to pay off, then please sign the petition below:
https://www.change.org/p/make-our-hecs-debts-easier-to-pay-off
Dr Julie Macken is back this week to discuss two major announcements that made headlines over the past couple of weeks: 1) the statement made by Australia's Deputy Prime Minister announcing that spending on Australia's defence is set to double to $100 billion by 2034 and 2) Labour's ongoing attempt to pass a Migration Amendment Act that would force thousands fleeing persecution based on sexual orientation, religious beliefs, or gender back to the place threatening their death.
This week, Cailey Sharp is back to discuss the South Sudanese youth crisis in Australia. With South Sudanese teens younger than 15 filling juvenile detention centres at disproportionately higher rates compared to other immigrant groups in Queensland, Cailey calls for intervention, education, and advocacy to keep young teens and children out of the system. Yet, there is a debate about removing the international law principle of using detention as a last resort from the Youth Justice Act altogether to instead call on immediate penalties that are "appropriate" for the crime... Let's not give up on these kids; let's not forget about them and let them get lost in the system; let's instead help improve their situations and give them the support they need to integrate them back into a society where they have the chance to make Australia and their communities proud.
This week, Dr Julie Macken recaps two primary historic moments that took place this week in Australia: having no submarines for at least a decade and breaching treating obligations. In this episode, Julie discusses how the billions spent in the AUKUS deal and toward 3 submarines could have perhaps been put to better use, such as housing 4 million Australians. Julie also reflects on how labour campaigned for a fair, rational, and humane government that recognises the humanity in those seeking protection. Yet, innocent people fleeing persecution may be facing up to 5 years in jail.
What do we do, as citizens, in the face of these outcomes?
On this week's edition of Speaking of Social Justice, Dr Michael Walker walks us through NSW's current challenges when it comes to public housing and how it might be Australia's biggest issue alongside the cost of living. Michael discusses how those with mortgages spend more than half of their disposable income on housing, how a significant proportion of the general public will never be able to buy into the market, and how we, as a nation, need to start looking at a second stream option. Michael then challenges our perception of public housing with mention to Singapore and how 78% of residents are in public housing.
It is time to look again at public housing.
For further information on what our office is doing, please visit the JPO's pre-budget submission: https://justiceandpeace.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Housing-its-time-for-the-Vienna-model-NSW-Pre-Budget-submission.pdf
This week, JPO's Cailey Sharp discusses the concept of a community drop-in centre and reflects on the launch of Curious Grace. With some of the struggles and barriers seeking professional mental health support bring, a drop-in centre such as Curious Grace offers immediate, peer-support nestled in your local parish.
If you are interested in booking training for your parish or becoming a certified volunteer, please reach out to the Justice & Peace Office at jpoinfo@sydneycatholic.org
Stay updated by visiting and following our Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jpo_syd/
To launch Season 3, Dr Julie Macken discusses how the JPO is honouring International Women's Day with a panel discussion of inspirational women discussing Immigration Detention and "the casual cruelty that has now become public policy." Each woman on the panel comes with a story on what it was like to come to Australia, seeking protection and refuge in Villawood. With a 25 year difference, one group saw a glimmer of hope, and the other, faced danger and horror. Julie recounts the difference in response and how Australia has changed to a country of "no."
Join us on March 7th to hear and celebrate these extraordinary and strong women.
https://events.humanitix.com/from-melancholia-to-imagination
This week, Dr Julie Macken brings us the final episode of the year. It is time to shine a light into the darkness of Australia’s immigration detention regime. Between 2001 and present day, tens of thousands of people seeking Australia’s protection have been held in immigration camps that are now privatised, offshore, and beyond the reach of Australia’s courts and most media. There have been at least 37 cases of suicide related to immigration detention, allegations of torture, the systemic abuse of men and women, and numerous articles and papers on the devastating impact of this privatised detention model. It is estimated this regime has cost Australian tax payers over $9.65 billion from July 2013 to the 2021-2022 financial year. We therefore ask the House to accept the call for a Royal Commission into Australia's Immigration Detention, to shine a light in this darkened chapter of our national story. Only a Royal Commission into Australia's Immigration Detention can fix this mess.
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PLEASE SIGN THE PETITION HERE:
https://www.aph.gov.au/e-petitions/petition/EN5644
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OR HERE:
https://www.change.org/p/malcolm-turnbull-please-allow-fariborz-s-family-to-bring-his-body-to-australia/u/32109759?cs_tk=Aq2sO_MJTBw5F1JiZGUAAXicyyvNyQEABF8BvMp2fkWhZ6xTi9hiT60e1nU%3D&utm_campaign=86ef4ba1582c4db8a9662049712650c6&utm_content=initial_v0_6_0&utm_medium=email&utm_source=petition_update&utm_term=cs
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https://www.immigrationdetention.com.au/
In light of recent headlines and controversial choices, Dr Julie Macken is back this week to discuss public spaces and places and who gets to decide what gets screened as well as using public spaces as a form of community communication. Julie also reflects on the 2018 Everest Cup controversy and backlash whereby the Sydney Opera House was used as a gambling pitch. Our host goes on to speak about how flags and nation colours are powerful symbols and we should not be using them carelessly; leading her to propose the question "Is it ever appropriate to screen another nation's flag and colours on our landmarks?"
Dr Julie Macken is back to speak about social justice; specifically, dealing with and resolving conflict in a non-violent fashion. Today, Julie reflects on boycotts and sanctions in relation to other countries. Though, it is not always legal to use the non-violent option, we need to find non-violent and legitimate ways of conflict resolution.
This week, Dr Julie Macken offers one final encouragement to vote YES by discussing what voting no means for the Australian population - both Indigenous and non-Indigenous. For a better Australia and to take a step closer to reconciliation, vote YES on Saturday, October 14th.
Due to popular demand, Dr Julie Macken is back to discuss yet again the Indigenous Voice to Parliament. However, Julie now offers us a different perspective by discussing the historical 'No Campaign' that argued against Women's Right to Vote in Australia. Specifically, the Petticoat Rule. Nothing bad happened, in fact, it resulted in a much better Australia - sound familiar?
Today, Julie Macken discusses the topic that is "dividing" Australians and that is, the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, As a White Australian, Julie discusses what saying YES to the Voice means to her. In this, we are able to reflect on why we should vote YES and the 'what ifs' associated. https://justiceandpeace.org.au/the-voice-to-parliament/https://www.yes23.com.au/pledge
Our host Julie Macken is back to discuss with us again campaigning for a Royal Commission into Immigration Detention. Specifically, making direct mention of Minister Andrew Giles announcing yet another Parliamentary Inquiry into Immigration Detention. Julie then discusses how a Parliamentary Inquiry does not necessarily have the powers of a Royal Commission. A Royal Commission has the power to compel corporations to produce financial documents, a Parliamentary Inquiry does not. A Royal Commission has the power to compel corporations to produce financial documents, a Parliamentary Inquiry does not. A Royal Commission has the power to protect, a Parliamentary Inquiry does not. A Royal Commission has the power to influence corporation, a Parliamentary Inquiry does not. A Royal Commission into Immigration Detention is the perfect solution.
For more details, please visit our website:
https://www.royal-commission-immigration-detention.com/
Our host Julie Macken welcomes Dr Robbie Lloyd back for a Q&A follow-up regarding the Curious Grace Model. Specifically, Robbie discusses the main reasoning and need for a Curious Grace drop-in centre and how to get parishes and their communities more hands on and involved in supporting vulnerable people. Community and familiar support are central to wellness and prosperity. Robbie reminds us to remember our friends and family locally but to be with them actively rather. Robbie and Julie then discuss what a day in the life of a drop-in centre may look like and how to get involved. Curious Grace's first drop-in centre will be piloting at St Canice's, Darlinghurst in the new year. https://justiceandpeace.org.au/curious-grace-toolkit/Contact Dr Robbie Lloyd if you are interested in setting up a drop-in centre within your local community - robbie.lloyd@sydneycatholic.org or 0429 128 639
Our host, Julie Macken, is back and is joined by JPO's Dr Michael Walker to discuss Peace in terms of security or tranquility. As Michael discusses further, peace as a notion of tranquilly suggests people are free to live their lives independently and optimistically. Contrastingly, peace in a sense of security is inherently regressive in that to be nationally secure, other people have to suffer. Michael explained how in labelling peace as a notion of security, we are reframing not just peace but how we see each other. The two made direct mention to the Tampas Affair occurring in 2001 whereby Australian Prime Minister, John Howard at the time, allowed for Australia's Special Air Service to board a civilian ocean tanker to prevent 400 asylum seekers from reaching the Australian shore. Security is not impersonal but the actions Australia has taken and is willing to take suggests it to be personal.
This week, we present to you the audio from our most recent event - 'Calling for a Peaceful Pacific' co-hosted by the Justice and Peace Office and the Independent and Peaceful Australia Network (IPAN). Focusing on renewing our solidarity for a Nuclear-Free Independent Peaceful Pacific and Australia's need to have a position of armed neutrality, the discussion panel featured two keynote speakers Indigenous to islands/territories that are heavily occupied and have been damaged by US military bases -Shinako Oyakawa from Ryukyu (Okinawa) and Monaeka 'Naek' Flores from Guahan (Guam). Accompanied by IPAN's Nick Deane and JPO's Julie Macken, the panel delved into the ongoing military occupation in the pacific and its effect on current and future populations. Specifically, Shinako discusses the history of militarisation within Okinawa, its impact on the Indigenous Peoples of Okinawa and how this military base alone has the highest instance of sex crime in the world. Naek goes further into the violent and destructive war crimes committed, the exacerbating climate crisis, the violence inflicted on Guam's Indigenous Peoples and their land, and the contamination from nuclear testing fallout and associated illnesses. "This is not something in the future, this is something happening now."
No More Tailsman Sabre | No More AUKUS | No More RIMPAC
Our host Julie Macken is back to discuss the endemic that is Family & Domestic Violence with direct mention to JPO's Tri-Diocesan Event surrounding the topic. Julie reviews the 2022-2023 Social Justice Statement - Respect: Confronting Violence & Abuse with particular attention drawn to Rose Batty, 2015 Australian of the Year, and her personal experiences and report on Family & Domestic Violence. Specifically, how it is a gendered issue with gender inequalities within our society as the driving force behind perpetrators and the aggressive patriarchal function and belief that Men are in fact better than Women. Furthermore, Julie brings light to the current treatment of Brittany Higgins and the obscene objectification on behalf of Australian politics, the coalition and Murdoch Media; solidifying the deep-rooted and ever so apparent shame associated with speaking up and reaching out.
The Justice & Peace Office invites you to reflect upon and discuss the 2022-2023 Social Justice Statement - Respect: Confronting Violence & Abuse on the evening of July 26th alongside an esteemed panel of guest speakers, abuse survivors and advocates.
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/tri-diocesan-social-justice-evening-2023-tickets-653360527927
Our host Julie Macken is back to discuss two major topics that are currently circulating global media; the last asylum seeker to leave Naru and Australia facing the International Criminal Court for its war crimes. Firstly, our attention is drawn to Naru, home of some of Australia’s most horrific acts of humiliation, degradation and neglect. Despite the need for a Royal Commission into Australia's detention practices and policies now moreso apparent, the world may never know the untold trauma and truth behind those doors. Julie directs us closer to the promise of permanent protection of thousands of asylum seekers, yet, for all of those who were abused on the island and are now forced to live with the trauma, the hope for justice dwindled and may never be achieved. In similar reports, Julie recounts how Australia has been referred to the International Criminal Court regarding the barbarous and inhumane war crimes committed by SAS Soldiers, how only one former soldier has been held accountable and how the country has devolved into a nation that does nothing to stop these crimes. At some point, Australia has to face reality and accept its long history of shockingly mistreating other humans needs to be addressed and answered for.
Our host Julie Macken is joined yet again by JPO's Dr Robbie Lloyd to explore the recent draft of the National Care & Economy Support Strategy surrounding areas of Mental Health, Ageing, Disability, and Childcare. Julie and Robbie discuss how care has previously been monetised whereby NGOs have been corporatised and how individuals have been understood only as investment opportunities. Our hosts further make mention to the recent submission campaigning for 'same job, same pay' and how this may impact Australians in a negative way; highlighting the perspective that the country needs its citizens to be under industrial awards with a guaranteed level of pay that values their work and efforts.
Our host Julie Macken talks us through the widening split between the world's perception of Australia and the country's own fantasies of reality. Specifically regarding Australia breaching the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT), the Brereton Report and Australia's war crimes causing a divide with the United States, the EU-Australia Agreement regarding Climate Change, and how this split is causing Australia to fall between the cracks.
Our host Julie Macken passes the mic to JPO's very own Dr Michael Walker to discuss non-government organisations' (NGOs) current struggles regarding the aftermath of COVID-19, the cost of living, diminishing wages, and their harmful effects on civil society and the current volunteer shortage. Dr Walker draws further attention to the burden of compliance and over-reporting that redirects NGO attention away from the true injustices and community issues at hand; prompting Michael's example of a 'tax-return' structure.
Our host Julie Macken guides us through a recent major event - Australia failing to meet its human rights obligations and becoming the first OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) member nation on the United Nation's non-compliance list; Article 17. Julie discusses how Australia failed to abide by and implement OPCAT (Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment) regarding access to our places of detention; such as, immigration detention centres and aged care centres, and how this negligence may impact the future of Australians.
Out host Julie Macken is back to discuss the idea of armed neutrality in the context of Australia and its defence. Julie explores what this may mean for peace, sovereignty, and how Australia is one of the only countries that has the capacity to be neutral.
This week, we bring to you the audio from JPO's 'No More Just War' event with guest speakers including JPO's very own Fr Peter Smith, Senator Deborah O'Neill, Sr Susan Connelly and Fr Claude Mostowik. Our esteemed guest panel discusses Just War Theory on whether war can be morally permissible, the destructive power of modern weaponry in the arms industry, and our right to safety and security. Disclaimer: Audio from this week's episode has been taken from a live streamed event and as a result, audio quality in some areas may vary. We appreciate your understanding.
Our host Julie Macken discusses the impacts of the upcoming Federal Budget and what it means for Australians; particularly, its under 40s. Julie brings our attention further to how a Federal Budget may determine what the government values as a fair distribution of funding regarding the cost of living, unemployment, and homelessness.
Our host Julie Macken welcomes the JPO's very own Dr Robbie Lloyd and Cailey Sharp to discuss the Curious Grace drop-in centre model which offers a unique chance for community connection and the honouring of lived experience. Cailey also offers her complementary program Buddy Up! – under the Curious Grace banner – to combat feelings of disconnect and foster intergenerational remedy. We invite you to visit the 'Curious Grace Toolkit' page for more information https://justiceandpeace.org.au/curious-grace-toolkit/
Our host Julie Macken discusses the limited human rights protections we currently have in Australia, reminding us of the harsh realities that come to fruition in the absence of a federal Human Rights Act. She also signals a strong call to action, urging our listeners to exercise their civic powers by visiting this link https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Joint/Human_Rights/HumanRightsFramework and submit a submission of their own to the parliamentary committee.
Our host Julie Macken welcomes the JPO's very own Dr Michael Walker to discuss economist Alison Pennington's book Gen F'd?: How Young Australians Can Reclaim Their Uncertain Futures and its relevance for the struggle of our overburdened youth. They seek to unpack three key themes raised by Pennington - precarity of work, housing, and neoliberalism - and the recommendations that follow.
Our host Julie Macken discusses the confronting realities revealed in the Sixth Assessment Report from the United Nations led Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and what it means for Australians. She also draws our attention to the 'dark money' of hefty political donations made by the fossil fuel industry to cement their development and profitability in Australia.
Our host Julie Macken discusses the pro-war rhetoric cropping up in Australian media narratives and across the pervasive Speech Act of our politicians. She particularly highlights the pitfalls of war propagation encouraged in The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald (SMH) and in the recent multibillion dollar AUKUS deal.
To launch season two of our podcast, our host Julie Macken discusses the importance of accepting the invitation to walk with Indigenous Australians via the Uluru Statement from the Heart. She reaffirms its significance in inclusive nation-building and challenges the alleged ambiguity surrounding what the statement can practically achieve.
Our host Julie Macken welcomes Social Justice Facilitator at the Justice and Peace Office, Dr Michael Walker, to discuss the ethical dilemmas surrounding Australia's welcoming of a gig economy. They seek to analyse the impacts of neo-liberalism and the precarious state of employment inflicted on the 'working poor' in Australia. They propose ethical alternatives and ways to opt out of seemingly inescapable way of living.
Our host Julie Macken welcomes Justice & Peace Office Intern, Emilia Nicholas, to respond to Tanya Plibersek's launch of the latest State of the Environment Report. They seek to analyse the devasting findings in this report whilst highlighting the severity of this ecological issue, finally urging the community to take immediate climate action.
Our guest host Dr Robbie Lloyd welcomes James Camden, Head of Mission Engagement at the Diocese of Parramatta to reflect on the fifth Plenary Council of Australia. They seek to explore how the power of the Spirit flowed throughout the event and discuss where the community should move next post-listening.
This week the Justice and Peace Office team engage in post-election analysis through the lens of social justice advocacy to acknowledge the success and stirring power of the community. The team addresses how the community can once again strategically leverage the government - and realign as a collective pressure group - to materialise their declared election promises and deliver their hope for a better Australian future.
Our special guest host Dr Robbie Lloyd welcomes back Fr Peter Smith, and Joelle Sassine to discuss the need for Australian civic society - whom now begin to approach the ballot box - to practically champion Catholic Social Teaching (CST). They seek to examine the importance of policy education in the lead up to decision day and the need to return to amplified social justice activism in order to denounce injustice.
Our host Julie Macken welcomes Josephite Justice Network Coordinator and activist Sr Jan Barnett to discuss the Voting for the Common Good (VFTCG) 2022 Campaign. They seek to explore the intersection between Catholic Social Teaching (CST) and the pursuit for social justice within the Australian policy agenda via Catholic solidarity. They will also unpack the Election Kit resources produced by the VFTCG team and its purpose in preparation for the Federal Election 2022.
Our host Julie Macken welcomes Nishadh Rego from Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) to discuss the Australian Government's policy position on refugee and asylum seekers in light of the 2022-23 budget report. They seek to analyse the highs and lows of the Federal Budget fund allocations in regards to protecting the rights of people seeking asylum, refugees and displaced people.
Our special guest host Dr Robbie Lloyd welcomes Ruth Moraes to discuss how lent breeds a fertile ground for social justice engagement. Under the framework of Catholic Social Teaching (CST), they seek to explore the practical ways in which we can express our passion for justice during this Lenten season.
Our host Julie Macken welcomes Dr Robbie Lloyd to discuss the unfolding process for the Sydney Archdiocese to develop a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). They seek to voice their commitment to this strategic document and highlight the importance for the shared Truth Telling and deep listening to First Nations Peoples about past and current injustices.
Our host Julie Macken welcomes Justice & Peace Promoter Fr Peter Smith to discuss and reposition our understanding of a 'just war' through the lens of Catholic Social Teaching (CST). They seek to analyse this political and philosophical theory through the contemporary case study of the Russia-Ukraine War.