Can citizen juries put the people back in democracy?

Australia faces many big challenges, but is our democracy up to the job of solving these, or are we experiencing a decision deadlock?

One process that could help governments meet the moment is known as citizen jury or assembly, where a cross section of ordinary people deliberate together over a thorny policy issue, then provide advice.

How do these work, are they effective, and should they play a more central role in Australia's democracy?

The session, The Place for Citizens Assemblies in Australia — where do they best fit? was recorded at Policy without Politics conference, hosted by Citizen Assemblies for South Australia, at the Woodville Town Hall in Adelaide on 14 June 2025.

Speakers

Jay WeatherillDirector of Democracy, McKinnonFormer South Australian Premier (2011 to 2018)

Simon BirminghamFormer South Australian Liberal Senator (2007 to 2025)

Emma FletcherCo-CEO, Democracy Co

Elizabeth Farrelly (host)Writer, columnist, critic, academic, broadcasterFormer councillor, City of SydneyDirector, Better Cities InitiativeAuthor, Bubberland; the Dangers of Happiness and Killing Sydney; the fight for a city's soul