Portraits Of Our Future

Translating complex policy insights into everyday realities, one story at a time.

About the Initiative

Portraits of Our Future bridges the gap between complex policy discussions and the lived experiences of Australians. This initiative shows how decisions made today shape lives for generations to come—making the future tangible, actionable, and deeply personal.

For too long, many have viewed thinking about the future as a luxury. But this very mindset has left us grappling with pressing challenges—skyrocketing costs of living, growing health inequities, a housing crisis, and worsening climate impacts. These problems didn’t appear overnight; they’re the product of short-term thinking.

It’s time to change the narrative. This project aims to ensure that long-term thinking isn’t an afterthought but rather the foundation for how our leaders shape our future. 

The Future Through Your Eyes

What does the future look like through your eyes?

We want to hear your story. Portraits of Our Future is about capturing the unique experiences of Australians and exploring what their lives could look like in 30 years—if we embrace bold, future-focused policies or stay on our current path.

Through this initiative, we will feature ten Australians whose lives reflect the many facets of our nation. Your perspective can inspire others, connect communities, and bring the importance of future generations' policies to the forefront of the Australian Federal Election and beyond.

This isn’t about abstract ideals. It’s about grounding the future in real people, real challenges, and real hope, told by Australians like you.

Why Your Story Matters

Every story matters, because every choice we make today shapes tomorrow. By sharing your story, you’ll:

Show the Power of Action

Demonstrate how future-focused policies create tangible, lasting benefits for individuals and communities.

Connect Australians

Highlight the shared experiences, struggles, and hopes that unite us as a nation.

Inspire Change

Put a human face to key issues, motivating Australians to demand better from their leaders.

What We’ll Create Together

  • Striking Portraits

     Visual stories captured by professional photographers that reflect your daily life and unique perspective.

  • Inspiring Narratives

    Stories informed by research and personal interviews, exploring what your future could look like with or without policy changes that consider the long-term.

  • A National Call to Action

    Campaign materials shared widely to highlight the power of long-term thinking and intergenerational equity.

Could this be you?

Is your story, or the story of someone you know, a perfect fit for this initiative?

If yes, please share your nomination below by January 10th, 2025.

Nomination Form

Why This Matters

The decisions we make today will define Australia’s future. This project isn’t just about portraits—it’s about showing how bold, systemic changes can transform lives for the better. By seeing the future through your eyes, we can inspire Australians to prioritise the wellbeing of future generations and demand leadership that plans beyond the next election cycle.

This is your chance to shape Australia’s story.

Together we can paint a picture of our future that we can be proud of.

 FAQs

  • We’re searching for ten Australians whose diverse experiences capture the essence of what it means to live and dream in this country. Whether you’re a social worker, a nurse, a small business owner, or a student, your perspective can bring this project to life.

  • Your story will personalise complex policy ideas, showing how decisions made today directly affect everyday lives. By connecting big ideas to real people, your voice can inspire meaningful change.

  • We understand that ten stories can’t represent all Australians, but they can reflect shared struggles and hopes that resonate broadly. These stories are the spark for a larger national dialogue.

  • We’ll work around your schedule! Participation includes:

    • One onboarding call.

    • A one-to-three-hour portrait session at a location convenient to you.

    • Up to three interviews (each lasting about 90 minutes) between December 2024 and September 2025.

  • Yes! While we’re a small non-profit, we value your time and contributions. All participants will receive a stipend as a token of our appreciation.

  • Absolutely. You’ll review and approve your portrait and story to ensure they authentically represent you—your challenges, triumphs, and vision for the future.

  • The 2025 Federal Election is a pivotal moment to bring future generations' policies into focus. By sharing your story, you’ll help ignite national dialogue among everyday Australians and ensure that long-term thinking becomes a priority for our leaders.

  • Of course! If you know someone whose story deserves to be told, you can nominate them using the form below.