Non-partisan group aims to change political debate

Australian society is more divided and action is needed to stop the fracturing, Paul Bassat says. (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)

National debates could be reshaped with the launch of a community-focused, non-partisan organisation that lets people share their ideas and opinions.

Amplify will host surveys, webinars, online forums and in-person events nationwide to help the community influence key policy decisions.

Chair Paul Bassat says society has become more divided in recent years and action is needed to stop the fracturing.

“Australians have told us their voices aren’t being heard on the critical issues that impact them," Mr Bassat said on Tuesday.

“We’re building a non-partisan community of people from all walks of life that will help identify the right solutions to the issues facing us."

Former NSW premier and Amplify board member Dominic Perrottet said the organisation would help the community move beyond partisan issues and focus on the values and goals that unite it.

“Amplify isn’t affiliated to any political party or external agenda and no matter who you are or where you’re from, you’re welcome to join," he said.

"We need to build a community which transcends party lines, helping people to work together for the common good and build a stronger nation."

An Amplify survey of 4000 Australians suggested 71 per cent of those polled feel discussions about politics are commonly combative and only one in five seek out opposing views on topics.

Additionally, more than 80 per cent think politicians prioritise winning votes over developing sound policies and say they want more input on policy decisions.

The data also showed three quarters of people believe there is a lack of long-term thinking in politics.

Amplify says it will use experts and evidence to help a broad range of Australians identify solutions to issues important to them and communicate with politicians.

Mr Bassat said the organisation aims to make Australia a more prosperous, fairer and better-informed nation.

The organisation, which is free to join, will host a series of in-person and online events across Australia in November titled "Better Australia" to explore issues facing members.

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