Pray for Australia

Aussies are known for their easy-going and friendly attitude. They value work-life balance and love spending time outdoors. The nation is filled with diverse natural beauty, which is often an escape from the stress of life. Australia was founded as a British prison colony, where Great Britain transported convicted criminals. The name “Australia” comes from the Latin phrase “terra australis incognita,” which means “unknown southern land.” Today, about 30 percent of the population is foreign-born, making Australia one of the most culturally diverse nations in the world. Australia has a strong government and works to protect the freedom and rights of its citizens. It has one of the world’s largest economies and is a global leader in healthcare and education.

Although prosperous, Australia has its environmental and social challenges. It is the driest inhabited continent and often suffers from droughts and bushfires. It reports high rates of sexual violence and drug use. The Indigenous peoples, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, have faced violence, loss of land, and discrimination since British colonization. Amid reconciliation efforts, many Indigenous Australians still experience social disparities and racism.

Australia protects freedom of religion, and it used to be predominantly Christian, but it is becoming more secular. Today, a little under half of the nation identifies as Christian, and about 10 percent regularly attend church. The evangelical Church is small but vibrant, and Australia continues to support global missions. Immigration has brought many different religions to Australia, which provides an opportunity for the Gospel to be shared within the country’s borders. However, religious beliefs are being affected by individualized spirituality, and people are losing trust in the Church. Loose doctrine has caused division. May God raise up passionate believers who inspire the nation to follow His Word.