The belief that Australians are laid back is being challenged, with new research revealing that the majority of Aussies are driving positive change.
Far from the traditional image of loud protests and bold activism, a surprising seven in 10 Australians are rolling up their sleeves and taking action in their communities or for the planet, even if they don’t consider themselves activists.
This shift in behaviour highlights the changing face of activism in Australia. It’s no longer about grand gestures or making a lot of noise — it’s about everyday heroes making small but powerful contributions that add up to significant impact.
In fact, Sunshine Coast residents are leading the way. Over the past year alone, eight in 10 residents from the Sunshine Coast have taken meaningful steps toward environmental or societal causes.
Whether it’s adopting more sustainable habits, embracing the circular economy, donating to charities, signing petitions, or posting about a cause they believe in on social media.
Sunshine Coast residents are also more likely to feel connected to their community and generally feel optimistic about the future. However, over a quarter also feel unable to make a real difference themselves.
The research was commissioned by Ben & Jerry’s – a brand that has been dedicated to activism and advocacy for the last 45 years – as part of its Make Some Motherchunkin’ Change campaign.
The aim of the campaign is to inspire and empower Aussies to embrace their inner activist, putting their voice and passions to action to build a world where everyone has the tools they need to thrive and make a difference.
Over the years, Ben & Jerry’s has rallied behind the most inspiring movements whilst shining a light on its Scoop Shop teams and customers who go above and beyond to make a change in their local communities.
From participating in regular beach clean ups with Plastic Free Noosa, Beach Matters and Clean Up Australia Day, the team at the Noosa and Mooloolaba Scoop Shops also partake in ongoing fundraising efforts for Wildlife Noosa, Island Charity Swim for Sunshine Coast Special Schools and for Friends of Buddina and Coolum & North Shore Coast Care to protect endangered native loggerhead turtles.
Heidi Griggs, franchisee at the Ben & Jerry’s Noosa and Mooloolaba Scoop Shops, said, “Not only do we serve up super-premium ice-cream, but we also do a whole lot of good thanks to the efforts of our amazing team and local residents.“
“From beach clean ups to driving fundraisers for great organisations, our mission is to continue to facilitate and encourage the local community into action and to Make a Motherchunkin’ Change.”
Sean Farrell, AU country business lead at Ben & Jerry’s, said, “As a brand who has been committed to driving activism and advocacy for decades, it’s great to see the efforts that Australians are already going to in making positive change within their communities or for the environment.“
“However, some have told us that they’re not sure where to start or how to get involved. This is what our Make a Motherchunkin Change is all about – inspiring and encouraging people to just go out and do it.
“There’s never been a better time to make your voice heard or to put your passions into action, as every action, no matter how small, can lead to big change.”
For more information on ‘Make a Motherchunkin’ Change’ and on how to get involved, visit Ben & Jerry’s website.
