The recent South Australian Election delivered a strong, stable result. But beneath that outcome sits a more telling signal: voters are shifting, trust is fragile and expectations of government and leadership are changing fast.
This is not unique to South Australia. It reflects a broader truth about democracy in 2026, one reinforced by the latest report from the Grattan Institute, For the people: Future-proofing Australia’s democracy. Its core message is simple: Australia remains one of the world’s strongest democracies, but we cannot afford to take it for granted.
Globally, democracy is under strain. Institutions are being tested by misinformation, geopolitical instability and economic shocks.
At home, the picture is more subtle but no less serious. Australians overwhelmingly support democracy, yet satisfaction with how it is working is declining and trust in politician and government institutions remains low.
Research by the McKinnon Institute shows that while around three-quarters of Australians prefer democracy, barely half are satisfied with how it is functioning.
Through its ‘Democracy Counts’ campaign, McKinnon argues the rules of politics have not kept pace with modern realities, where misinformation spreads rapidly, public debate is more polarised, and many Australians feel disconnected from decision-making.
This is not disengagement. Rather, it is a demand for a system that better reflects, listens and delivers. This was clearly reflected in the recent State Election results.
Yes, voters delivered a clear mandate and overwhelmingly backed in the Malinauskas Government for a second term. But they also signalled a willingness to shift allegiances, to question institutions and to scrutinise process, whether through support for minor parties or heightened attention to electoral integrity.
The implication is clear: governing has become harder and communities are rightfully expecting more.
The Grattan Institute points to a future shaped by “more turbulent times,” where governments must navigate economic uncertainty, technological disruption and social change, while still delivering long-term reform.
At the same time, public expectations are rising. Voters don’t just want outcomes; they also want the integrity that comes with the debate of ideas and decisions that demonstrate leadership and accountability.
Trust is now the currency of effective government.
Without strong, trusted institutions, Australians will find it increasingly difficult to make informed decisions and governments will be less able to design and deliver solutions to our most pressing challenges.
In a climate of constant political noise, there is value in reflecting on the importance of democracy and how we can ensure we future proof our democratic values, particularly from those who have led before. Former State leaders bring perspective on what endures in leadership, what builds trust and what can bring it crashing down.
Just as importantly, they offer a longer view of democracy, not as a fixed 4-year term, but as one that must evolve and keep up with demands and expectations of today’s society.
Because at the end of the day, that is the core lesson emerging from South Australia’s recent election results, from the Grattan Institute and from the Democracy Counts campaign: democracy is not self-sustaining. It requires renewal and constant care to build a better and more resilient democracy for future generations.
And that means better institutions. More transparent leadership. A stronger public sphere. And a renewed focus on ensuring people feel heard, represented and included.
Sam Dighton
Chief Executive
Committee for Adelaide
