As a nation, we are collectively experiencing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and there is no doubt that this crisis will be a defining moment in Australia’s history. It is challenging all aspects of our lives and has altered the way that we live, work, and even interact with one another. Prior to this pandemic, it was typical for individuals to consider only family, friends and peers as part of their ‘community’. Now, as this crisis continues to develop and evolve, it is also altering our sense of community to encompass far more than just who is in our immediate social circles. In facing this life-changing event we have all developed a greater awareness of the broader community and society in which we live. It is through the current hardships that we have developed a strong sense of community cohesion and solidarity as we band together to preserve our way of life.
From a psychological perspective – as humans – first we feel, then we think, then we behave.
So how will this renewed sense of community change the way that we think about our country and engage with our community? With an increased determination to protect our country, our desire to support Australian businesses and look after our community and lifestyle is stronger now than it has ever been before.
As a nation, we are actively supporting small, local businesses, in lieu of foreign retailers. We are reaching out to neighbours and members of our local community offering support and kinship. We are donating food to local charities to support those who have recently lost their jobs and cannot afford to feed their families. Our heightened sense of social responsibility and commitment to our community at this time means that we are working together to ensure that
we recover from this global crisis.
