July 2025

In stressful times what really counts is how we treat each other, writes Michael Kelly.

This weekend, Tasmanians will return to the polls for the second time in just under a year following a no-confidence motion that led to the dissolution of the previous state Liberal government.

This early election comes at a time when many people in the community are feeling stretched by rising costs of living, pressure on health services, and a sense of political uncertainty.

It’s no surprise that public debate has increased, with strong and sometimes divisive views on the issues shaping this campaign, including the proposed Macquarie Point stadium.

Big-ticket projects like the stadium have become central talking points in public conversation, reflecting broader concerns about priorities, and the kind of future Tasmanians want to invest in.

Whether people are for or against such proposals, what’s clear is that these debates bring out differing views and affect how connected or divided our communities feel.

You might find yourself in conversations with friends, family or neighbours who hold different views about the election and where Tasmania’s priorities should lie.

That’s part of a healthy democracy.

For some, election conversations can be tiring, particularly for those already feeling the weight of stress or uncertainty. In times like these, small gestures like checking in on neighbours, having a chat over coffee, or choosing our words with kindness online can help build trust and ease tension.

While these conversations can sometimes feel uncomfortable or even personal, they also create an opportunity to listen with care, share with curiosity, and strengthen our ability to deepen our understanding of each other.

For me, that’s what building a connected and respectful Tasmania looks like, something we at Relationships Australia Tasmania are deeply committed to.

It’s okay to disagree and it’s okay not to have all the answers.

What matters is showing up for those around us with an open heart and mind, listening, learning, and treating others with respect, even when opinions differ.

We also need to consider that not everyone will feel equally safe or supported in these conversations.

It’s important we create space where everyone feels they can express their views without fear of being dismissed, judged or excluded.

Respect doesn’t mean agreement, it means seeing the humanity in one another, even when we land on different sides of a debate.

As election day gets closer, I find myself thinking that voting is just one part of it.

What really counts is how we treat each other along the way.

At the end of the day, most of us want the same things: strong communities, a fair go for everyone, and a Tasmania where connection and respect are at the heart of what we do and who we are.

Dr Michael Kelly is the Chief Executive Officer at Relationships Australia Tasmania

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Media Contact: A.Mark Thomas, M&M Communications, 0422 006 732

About Relationships Australia Tasmania

At Relationships Australia Tasmania we provide families, couples, individuals, older people, children and communities with tools and strategies, so that they have healthy, positive lives. We help more than 8000 Tasmanians every year to transform and change their lives through counselling, mediation, dispute resolution, support and training.

Our focus is on:

• healthy relationships, conflict resolution, parenting, cultural issues and mental health
• We offer people the services and support they need, when they need it to assist them when life presents challenges.
• Services are available to all people regardless of cultural background, family structure, economic situation, religious beliefs, gender or sexual orientation.

More information about the services and support we offer can be found on our website www.tas.relationships.com.au