It’s a big week for Australia, with an election just days away. Jacob Hill, State Director of the Australian Christian Lobby (ACL), joined Tim in studio to share his thoughts on the campaign and what’s at stake for people of faith.
A Campaign with Big Consequences
“This is a very big week with very big consequences,” Jacob said. He pointed out a stark difference between the two major party leaders.
“One is quite happy to say whatever he feels, and the media doesn’t seem to hold him accountable,” he said. “Meanwhile, the more conservative option is being silenced.”
He believes the media plays a powerful role in shaping public opinion.
“They’re almost a third player in this election,” Jacob explained. “They can edit things to look a certain way.”
Where’s the Vision?
Veteran political reporter Peter Kennedy told the show earlier this week that the campaign has been “disappointing” due to a lack of vision.
Jacob agrees.
“We’re seeing a real deficit in integrity and courage,” he said. “People want leaders who are trustworthy and upfront even if they don’t agree with everything.”
According to Jacob, voters are craving honesty.
“Tell us what you really want. Stand by it. Don’t just say what you think people want to hear.”
What’s at Stake for Christians?
As the election nears, Jacob says the ACL is especially concerned about policies affecting families and religious freedom.
“One of the big things on our radar is the right for Christian schools to hire staff who share their faith,” Jacob said. “That’s under threat.”
He warned that some small changes could have long-term effects.
“If we lose the ability to educate our children in line with our faith, that’s going to have a massive impact not just now, but for generations to come.”
Do We Have Religious Freedom?
Many Australians assume religious freedom is protected by law. But Jacob says that’s not entirely true.
“Australian law is behind the international human rights standard,” he said. “There’s no clear law protecting religious freedom.”
He added, “We’ve got a patchwork of laws that sort of get us there, but they’re not rock solid.”
How to Cut Through the Noise
With so much information and misinformation Jacob offered a simple tool for voters. “The easiest way to see where each party stands is to visit australiavotes.org.au,” he said.
The website lays out party positions on major issues, including cost of living, housing, and religious freedom.
“It’s not about pushing a party,” he explained. “The ACL isn’t a political party. We’re for Jesus and for Australia.”
Speaking Up Without Fear
Many Christians hesitate to speak up for what they believe, worried about backlash.
Jacob understands the fear, but encourages courage.
“Fear of reprimand is real but it can’t stop us from doing the right thing,” he said. “We’re not trying to hurt people. We’re standing for what we believe is true.”
He encourages Christians to assess the policies carefully and speak up respectfully.
“We can still be gracious and bold,” he said. “We’re called to truth and love.”
Final Thoughts
As Australians prepare to vote, Jacob Hill urges everyone to look deeper than headlines and party slogans.
“Peel back the surface,” he said. “Know what’s really going on. Then vote with integrity.”