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A pilot civic education workshop, Australia’s Democracy and You, delivered by Auspire at Perth’s Indian Community Centre on June 20, 2026, has generated strong interest from community organizations across Western Australia, prompting plans for six additional workshops during the coming financial year.
Founded in 1977, Auspire describes itself as an independent not-for-profit organization, registered charity and the Australia Day Council of Western Australia. Through initiatives such as the Australian of the Year Awards, the Community Citizen of the Year Awards, cultural awareness workshops, diversity and inclusion workshops and citizenship education workshops, Auspire says it encourages individuals and communities to contribute to a more inclusive, connected and resilient Australia. According to the organization, its programs focus on active citizenship, civic participation, social inclusion and community engagement across the state.
The pilot workshop, supported by the Office of Multicultural Interests, brought together members of Perth’s Indian Australian community from a range of backgrounds for a morning of structured civic learning.
The event was delivered across three sessions. Neha Shinghal, Manager of Community Programs at Auspire, facilitated the first two sessions, beginning with a discussion on active citizenship, belonging and social cohesion before leading a second session on the Australian Constitution, the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and the country’s three levels of government. Bryce Kershaw from the WA Electoral Commission then led the third session, guiding participants through Australia’s preferential voting system and conducting a mock election, allowing attendees to complete ballot papers and practice the voting process from start to finish.
The workshop attracted participants from across Perth’s Indian Australian community, representing a range of ages and backgrounds. Many said they left with a stronger understanding of Australia’s democratic processes, while several expressed interest in hosting similar sessions within their own communities.
Participant feedback reflected the value placed on the program. “An individual citizen plays a very significant role in shaping the governing policies and future for us and future generations. Active participation is a must to keep Australia safe and secure,” said one attendee. Another participant commented, “Should have such info sessions close to elections to reinforce our knowledge gained.”
Shinghal said the outcomes from the pilot validated the need for the program. She said one of the most rewarding outcomes was seeing participants move “from curiosity to confidence.”
“As the session progressed, people became more engaged, asked thoughtful questions, and developed a stronger understanding of how Australia’s democratic systems and institutions work,” she said.
She said that understanding how decisions are made gives people greater confidence to participate in civic life. “When people understand how decisions are made and how they can participate, they are better equipped to have their voices heard and contribute to their communities.”
Auspire said the strong interest in the pilot workshop and overwhelmingly positive participant feedback had reinforced the need for accessible civic education programs and influenced its decision to expand the initiative. “Programs like these play an important role in fostering informed, connected and engaged communities,” the organization said.
The workshop was featured on Channel 9 News’ 6.30pm bulletin, extending its reach to audiences across Western Australia. Auspire said the coverage helped highlight the value of civic education and community engagement beyond those who attended the event. Channel 9 serves as Auspire’s strategic media partner.
With expressions of interest already received, Auspire plans to deliver six workshops through community organizations across Western Australia during the coming financial year, broadening the program’s reach to culturally and linguistically diverse communities and helping participants engage more confidently in Australian civic life. Further information about the program is available at auspire.org.au.
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