Elly Mackay
29 October 2025: Those who feel their culture and language is adequately represented in the news are twice as likely to perceive influence over Australian society, according to a new report released today by the University of Canberra and SBS.
The report, , explores the link between the role of news media and media representation more generally in fostering social participation and a sense of belonging among multilingual communities. It is the second iteration of the report, with Wave1 released in 2023.
Lead by Professor Sora Park (University of Canberra) and Rebecca Griffiths (SBS), the study surveyed 1,876 respondents in seven languages (Arabic, Cantonese, Italian, Mandarin, Punjabi, Vietnamese and English)- for Punjabi speakers it was their first time being included in the study.
Across four measures of belonging, the most significant increases were in the proportion of multilingual audiences that say their needs are being met (69 per cent, up eight percentage points) and that members care about each other in their local communities (64 per cent, up seven percentage points).
Additionally, those who feel their culture and language are represented in news feel a stronger sense of belonging (63 per cent) than those who don’t feel fairly represented (32 per cent).
“We found that while multilingual audiences are more likely to feel at home in Australia, they have less confidence about making an impact on society,” Professor Park said.
“Media representation plays a key role in audiences’ confidence to participate in society, which can lead to a greater sense of belonging. However, multilingual audiences feel there is a lack of representation of their communities in the media, particularly among Arabic, Mandarin, and Cantonese speakers.”
Key findings from the report include Punjabi speakers reporting the highest sense of belonging across all community types, while Mandarin speakers feel the least connected. There are also differences in sense of belonging by residential status, and those who feel represented in the news have higher collective efficacy.
“Cultural representation in the broader Australian media is a key factor in fostering a sense of belonging within society,” Professor Park said.
“Multilingual audiences also expressed a strong desire for more media content in their language, and we found that each community holds nuanced preferences regarding how their culture and language are portrayed.’’
SBS Acting Managing Director, Jane Palfreyman, said the report was a continuation of the work SBS does to drive a diverse media environment.
“SBS has been contributing to a sense of belonging for all Australians for 50 years by driving an inclusive and multicultural media landscape,” she said.
“This second wave of research shows positive outcomes, demonstrating progress while recognising there is more to be done. By platforming diverse voices and perspectives, we can continue to build connection and a more socially cohesive Australia.”
A copy of the report can be accessed here: .