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As Australia gears up for the federal election on May 3, the Australian Bishops are calling on all Catholics to be beacons of hope in the midst of economic challenges and growing polarization in society.
By Lisa Zengarini
Australian voters are preparing to cast their votes on May 3 to determine the next government. Incumbent Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is seeking re-election for the Labour Party against opposition leader Peter Dutton of the Liberal-National Coalition. The two leaders recently engaged in their first public debate on April 7.
Key issues in the election campaign include cost-of-living, housing, healthcare access, immigration, crime, and climate action. All of this is happening against a backdrop of economic uncertainty and political polarization.
Advancing the Common Good and Inspiring Hope
Prior to the election, the Australian Bishops released an Electoral Statement titled “Called to Bring Hope in the Year of Jubilee”, urging Catholic voters to embody hope and play a role in shaping the nation’s moral and social direction. They emphasized that voting is not just a civic duty but an opportunity to advance the common good and bring hope.
Addressing Polarization and Promoting Social Cohesion
The Bishops expressed concern over the rise of polarization in Australia’s political discourse, which they believe undermines social cohesion. They condemned all forms of hatred and discrimination, including anti-Semitism that has surfaced in Australian society due to conflicts in the Middle East.
They emphasized the importance of resolving conflicts through democratic means and called on voters to make informed decisions that uphold what is true, good, and just.
Guidance for Catholic Voters
The Bishops stressed the importance of a well-formed conscience guiding Catholic voters in their decision-making process. They underscored the need for careful consideration, prayer, and discernment of God’s will.
“Conscience is our inner guide, enabling us to discern right from wrong and judge what is good and just, and we have a duty to follow it faithfully. This demands careful consideration of the facts and the background to our decisions, and a commitment to prayer to discern God’s will.”
Key Issues for Reflection
The statement highlighted key ethical and social issues for Catholics to reflect on, including the sanctity of life, support for families, religious freedom, responsible stewardship of the environment, promoting the common good, and fostering a just society.
The Bishops concluded by reaffirming four foundational principles of Catholic Social Teaching: human dignity, promoting the common good, subsidiarity, and solidarity.
