Big Ideas Musician Holly Rankin on why young Australians feel that politics isn't delivering for them
Nov 27, 2025
Holly Rankin, known as Jack River, is a musician and cultural strategist who integrates creativity with civic engagement. In this captivating discussion, she explores the disillusionment of young Australians towards politics and media. Holly shares insights on how culture and digital habits shape youth’s perspectives, critiques shallow political outreach, and emphasizes the need for authenticity. She advocates for a two-way dialogue in politics and the importance of bridging art and civic life to rebuild trust and participation.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Early Political Contact And Musical Community
- Holly Rankin recounts emailing her local MP as a child and believing politics could be a two-way conversation.
- She later built Jack River after personal tragedy and created a community through music that connected to civic issues.
Trust Shift From Institutions To Individuals
- Young Australians have shifted trust from institutions to individuals and personalities online.
- This reflects a move from institutional legitimacy to relational credibility, driven by visible institutional failures.
New Public Square: Creators And Niche Media
- Young people aren't absent from civic life; they create alternative public squares online and via creators.
- These spaces combine news, commentary and community tailored to specific interests and identities.