Aussies shun organised religion in favour of Spiritual Pursuits
Recent studies and census data reveal a significant shift amongst Australians from organised religion towards personal spiritual pursuits. This trend is particularly prominent among Millennials and Gen Z.
The 2021 census found that Christianity decreased by more than 1 million people, though it remains Australia’s most common religion.
The collective census data held by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) shows a steady decline over the past 50 years in the number of Australians reporting an affiliation with Christianity, whilst during the same period – particularly the last 20 years – there has been a corresponding rise in ‘secular beliefs’.
In 2021, the proportion of the population reporting to have no religious alignment was circa 39%, up from 30% in 2016 (source: ABS).
Experts attribute this shift to various factors including but not limited to; exposure to global spiritual practices, a rise in the awareness of spiritual leaders and messaging, a growing cultural emphasis on individualism, and the rise of holistic wellness and mindfulness programs.
With the global increase in death rates, the Covid-19 Pandemic and accompanying disruption to lives on multiple fronts, wars, escalation in suicide rates, cost of living pressures and general uncertainty with government at every level, the trend of seeking spiritual enlightenment/hope will likely continue to rise at the current, if not greater rate.
It stands to reason therefore, that demand for spiritual education and awareness is very high amongst many Australians. Founder of ‘The Afterlife Convention’ Paul King, who has brought together an impressive array of spiritualists, including medical professionals and scientists who have found comfort and hope outside organised religion, believes that Australians need a place to learn about the many different aspects of spirituality and healing, from ancient wisdom to modern practices to help them cope with the pressures of life.
“So much remains a mystery, but a great deal we know, and I want to point out that religion and spirituality don’t have to be mutually exclusive. It isn’t just about beliefs, more importantly, it’s about using the experience and knowledge of spiritual teachers to help find meaning and purpose in your own life” says King.
“Life is nothing if not a journey of self-discovery and it can be daunting, challenging and hard at times. By diving into the essence of the human spirit together, we can release our untapped power and help support each to better demonstrate our humanity at a time the world really needs us to do so!”
The Afterlife Convention is a celebration of life, death, and the eternal journey of the soul, and King hopes to make his contribution in a respectful, honest and transparent way. “The people involved with the Convention have been handpicked and represent an extensive and diverse portfolio of the finest spiritual services, speakers and product retailers available in Australia. Next year, it’s our intention to bring an international flavour to the event, but initially we want to showcase the enormous knowledge, wisdom and passion available locally.”
