The use of Victim Impact Statements in a NSW homicide trial

The NSW Opposition Leader John Robertson has proposed changes to legislation that forces courts to consider Victim Impact Statements when sentencing violent offenders. Amber McKinley argues that this raises questions about the value of one life compared to another.

Our voice. Our impact.

It’s National Youth Week (NYW) from 4 to 13 April 2014, the largest celebration of young people in Australia. Thousands of young people aged 12-25 from across Australia get involved in NYW each year.

In defence of shyness – but there’s a downside

Being shy can be quite charming, but also isolating. Leicester Warburton says that when we look up, smile and show a genuine interest in people, we realise we are not alone.

Coaching conversations – The intention to give attention

In our busy lives it is rare that we take the time to engage meaningfully with each other at the workplace and at home. Organisational coach Clive Leach says that being present and suspending our own agenda and needs for a few minutes is an act of kindness that has benefits for both giver and receiver.

On creativity and sleepwalking

Creating any form of artwork can be a long and sometimes painful process. Ursula Kolbe recounts how her book about children’s art came to life once she stopped trying too earnestly to be rational.

Igniting the fuse – A study of anger measurement

People express their anger in different ways. Dr Lee Kannis, clinical psychologist at the University of the Sunshine Coast, invites individuals from all walks of life who experience anger to participate in an international study.

Harmony Day – Do you feel like you belong in Australia?

Today is Harmony Day, and the motto is ‘Everyone Belongs’. Sue Ellson from the Newcomers Network invites us to get off our chair, say hello and smile to someone we don’t know in order to celebrate Harmony Day every day.

It’s not too late to be brave and shave

The impact of blood cancer is immense for the person diagnosed and their loved ones. Alys Holz from the Leukaemia Foundation invites everyone to get involved even after the World’s Greatest Shave campaign.

My word is my bond

Being true to your word is a powerful, yet highly subjective thing. Bill Macartney reflects on integrity and truth in business.

Let’s cut back on the F-word

There is music and abundance in the English language. Leicester Warburton wonders why so many people then are fixated on one limited adjective.

How to do more of what we love.

No matter what you do in life, it’s always a good idea to talk to people who have already done it or at least are willing to listen to your experience. Michal Bodi has started Sydney Artist Collective to unite creative souls online and form a community of like-minded people to share and connect.

Inquiries and witch hunts

Tony Abbott has announced a Royal Commission into union corruption. Sheenal Singh says it’s not the first time the far-reaching powers of a Royal Commission have touched the union movement.