Speaking of Social Justice

Speaking of Social Justice

by Justice and Peace Office (JPO)

Politics Philosophy

Season 4

One Man’s War: Who Decides?

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?

The Coldest Night

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.

How does change happen?

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?

Every Australian Should Care About Gaza

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?

Catholic Social Teaching & Reconciliation

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.

Gaza, Genocide, and Australia's Moral Responsibility

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?

After the Ballot Box

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.

The People's National Security Plan

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.

Penguins, Tariffs, and the Normalisation of Abuse

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.

Can Social Justice Happen Online?

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.

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