As we head toward the Voice referendum on October 14, join us in analysing the political campaigns from a strategic perspective. Who will emerge victorious? The answer awaits, and the lessons drawn here can extend beyond this specific context.

Win or lose, the Federal Government will want to reset the conversation very quickly after 14 October, as we pass the midpoint of this term of government.

With The Voice front and centre in the philanthropic and community foundations space, we need to consider how we work with people to change their minds on this issue or any other.

Neil Pharaoh recently did a radio interview on civil society, and it got him thinking: What will be the future of civil society on its current trajectory?

When you want to win hearts and minds on the road to change, sometimes you can gain the most ground by engaging with the people who support you the least.

As Neil writes to us from Egypt, the location of COP27, we are reminded of the need for climate justice, equity and equality across all communities in Australia.

Last week, Neil Pharaoh was in Canberra for a number of work meetings and stumbled across the “Convoy to Canberra” protests, which made for an interesting few days in the national capital. This week, he asks what impact all this will have on the election in 2022?

The old adage that you catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar is never more correct than in the era of growing “cancel” culture. Remember, movements are created with open arms, not closed views.

The social sector needs to find the will to drive politicians to deliver funding and policy decisions that will lead us to build back better, write Neil Pharaoh and Angus Crowther.