Here’s a great New Year’s Resolution. Let’s all strive to be more tolerant. As 2020 dawns, this nation – and many others – seem to be paralysed by division. The emergence of social media and the 24-hour media cycle have significantly altered the way people relate to each other and the way political discourse is conducted.

Australians are suffering conflict fatigue, says Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

Debate has been replaced by shouting. Facts are trumped by dogma. People are stuck in the rut of culture wars, unwilling to alter their views on issues such as climate change despite the science being clear and the evidence being demonstrated in devastating fashion.

Intolerance is everywhere. Social media platforms allow people to exist in echo chambers where their views are constantly reinforced and never challenged. Many of us no longer have much opportunity to engage with people who hold different views.

When I was privileged to become the Labor Party’s 21st leader in June, I observed that Australians were suffering from conflict fatigue. I pointed to the growing number of people who vote in elections for a minor political party that can’t possibly form government. Back then, I said Australians were sick of people shouting at each other and tired of the venom and hatred of social media trolling. More than six months into the job, this remains my view.