In a recent address, Julian Hill, the assistant minister for citizenship in the Albanese government, highlighted concerns regarding the growing trend of religious education and home schooling in Australia. He argued that these educational choices may lead to children maturing without meaningful connections to peers from different cultures and religions. Hill emphasized that such isolation could undermine social cohesion and intercultural understanding, which are essential in a multicultural society like Australia.

Hill pointed to the increase in home schooling, particularly following the Covid-19 pandemic, as a significant factor contributing to this issue. He indicated that some children may be exposed to extreme or conservative curriculums that not only limit their exposure to diverse perspectives but potentially reshape their understanding of multiculturalism. Hill's remarks were delivered at a speech for the McKell Institute, a progressive thinktank, where he called on policymakers to address these emerging educational patterns that could affect the social fabric of the country.

To mitigate the potential negative impacts of segregated educational experiences, Hill proposed initiatives to promote interaction among children from various backgrounds, especially through activities like sports and extracurricular engagements. He argues that intentionally designed programs encouraging diverse interactions could foster relationships and understanding among future generations, nurturing a more cohesive Australian society.