POLIS Index Australia for Political Parties
Highlights by Ethnic Origin
Across nearly all ethnic origin groups in Australia, the Labor Party is perceived as more ethically credible than the Coalition. Among North-East Asian respondents, Labor receives the highest POLIS score of 3.21, compared to 2.28 for the Coalition. Similarly strong ratings for Labor are seen among South-East Asians (3.16), North African and Middle Eastern Australians (3.16), and Southern and Central Asians (3.13). These groups view Labor as the party more aligned with values like fairness, procedural justice, and benevolence.
North-West Europeans and Oceanians—two of the largest ethnic origin groups—also rate Labor significantly higher. Labor receives POLIS scores of 3.12 and 3.07 respectively, while the Coalition scores 2.07 and 2.19. These substantial gaps suggest that even among traditionally dominant cultural groups, Labor holds a considerable ethical trust advantage. The Coalition’s ratings in these groups are among its lowest overall, indicating persistent issues in public perception across a broad swath of the population.
Among Southern and Eastern Europeans, the pattern holds: Labor scores 3.08, while the Coalition scores 2.07. Respondents from the People of the Americas rate both parties lower than other groups, with Labor at 2.46 and the Coalition at 1.97. These relatively low scores may reflect political disengagement, perceived lack of representation, or unfamiliarity with party positions—but Labor still maintains its lead.
The only group in which the Coalition narrowly outperforms Labor is among Sub-Saharan Africans, where the Coalition receives a POLIS score of 2.90, and Labor scores slightly lower at 2.83. This reversal, though modest, suggests that in some communities, the Coalition may be perceived as equally or more aligned with values such as competence or legitimacy. Still, this is an exception in an otherwise uniform pattern of Labor leading in ethical evaluations across ethnic backgrounds.
Overall, the POLIS Index shows that ethnic origin shapes how Australians evaluate the ethical credibility of political parties—but the pattern is overwhelmingly clear. Labor is trusted more across almost all groups, especially among Australians of Asian, Middle Eastern, and European descent. The Coalition’s lower ratings across most ethnicities suggest a significant perception gap that will require sustained efforts to close if it hopes to broaden its ethical appeal in Australia’s diverse society.
What values do people in democratic nations want their political parties to imbue and represent?
Integrity
Integrity means acting consistently with one’s principles and telling the truth, even when it's inconvenient. In a democracy, people expect their political representatives to follow through on promises and live up to the values they claim to hold. Without integrity, public trust quickly erodes.
Benevolence
Benevolence reflects care, compassion, and a commitment to serving the public rather than personal or partisan interests. Citizens expect those in power to act in the best interest of society, especially for vulnerable or underserved groups. When benevolence is lacking, politics can feel distant and self-serving.
Accountability
Accountability means being answerable for decisions and willing to admit mistakes. Democratic systems rely on the idea that leaders serve the people and must face consequences if they fall short. When accountability is strong, citizens feel empowered to demand better.
Legitimacy
Legitimacy is the belief that those in power deserve their authority and represent the people fairly. It’s not just about winning elections — it’s about earning public trust through ethical, democratic leadership. Without legitimacy, political systems struggle to function effectively or peacefully.
Competence
Competence is the ability to get things done — to design effective policies, manage resources, and solve problems. In democratic societies, voters want leaders who can deliver real results and meet the needs of diverse communities. Good intentions matter, but capable execution is essential.
Transparency
Transparency is about openness — making decisions visible, explaining them clearly, and sharing information honestly. In a democracy, people have a right to know how decisions are made and why. Transparency builds public confidence and helps prevent corruption or manipulation.
Procedural Fairness
Procedural fairness ensures that rules are applied equally, decisions are made impartially, and everyone is treated with respect. In a diverse democracy, fairness is the foundation of legitimacy — it reassures people that the system is not biased or rigged. Fair processes create faith in just outcomes.