WHO WE ARE

Publica is a policy and advocacy organisation dedicated to fostering friendship, strengthening families, and building close-knit communities across Australia.

The developed world has experienced rapid social, cultural, economic and technological change, leading to weakening of foundational social structures including friendship, intimate partnerships, family, churches and communities. 

Loneliness, isolation, and other forms of relationship breakdown are straining our social bonds, worsening our quality of life and causing mental health issues, poverty and shorter lifespans. Tragically, our younger generations are worst affected. 

We believe local churches embedded in their communities are best placed to meet this need—but they can’t do it alone. It takes institutions across society working together to tackle the growing relationship drought. 

So, motivated by our Christian faith, we equip churches, community groups and government with evidence-based solutions to strengthen social units in society so we can all flourish.

"Christians in the public square are so often known for what we are against...we have a positive message, a message of love and care for the whole community, and that's not being heard in Australia very well."
Patrick Parkinson
Prof Patrick Parkinson AM
Executive Director, Publica

WHAT WE DO

Research

We provide in depth and high level research reports and findings related to the areas of families, communities and relationships.

Advocate

We shine a light on public policy issues the media often neglects, and advocate for positive policy that reflects Christian values and has the best interest of communities in mind.

Partner

We partner with Churches and organisations, providing tools and resources, to support them in strengthening families and communities throughout Australia.

Our team

Patrick Parkinson

executive director - patrick parkinson

Prof. Patrick Parkinson AM is an expert on family law and child protection. From 2004-2007 he was Chairperson of the Family Law Council, an advisory body to the federal government, and also chaired a review of the Child Support system in 2004-05 which led to the enactment of major changes to the Child Support Scheme. In 2004, he proposed the creation of Family Relationship Centres to Prime Minister John Howard. This proposal was accepted by the government and led to the establishment of these government-funded centres all over the country. Patrick was President of the International Society of Family Law from 2011-14. He is also well-known for his work concerning child protection, particularly child sexual abuse.

The board - chaired by Rev dr Michael jensen

The Board is chaired by the Rev. Dr Michael Jensen, the Rector of St Mark’s Darling Point in Sydney. He has previously lectured at Moore College in Sydney. Michael is the author of several books, including Is Forgiveness Really Free? He has written numerous articles in the Christian and secular press on issues of public theology.

Assistant director - isabella clarke

Isabella holds an Honours degree in Justice and Criminology, with a research thesis on restorative justice in the youth justice system. She has direct experience working with young people in the Victorian Youth Justice system to support their rehabilitation, in addition to policy and program development and implementation.
Currently, Isabella serves as the Assistant Director at Publica. Isabella is passionate about the role of evidence-based public policy in supporting individuals, families and communities to flourish. Her commitment to community service extends beyond her role at Publica, where she actively participates on the boards of several Christian organizations dedicated to shaping public policy.

Publica.org is registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profit Commission as a charity.