Friels believes that social and political awareness comes with acting, and is known for his engagement in policy debates, including industrial issues such as workplace relations and free trade. He publicly criticised Bush administration policy in the Middle East, and supported the Sydney Peace Foundation. His engagement with social issues has been evident in his acting work, with two prominent examples being his lead role in "Ground Zero", in which he played a cameraman investigating British nuclear testing in South Australia, and his appearance in the ABC television drama "Bastard Boys", in which he played union official John Coombs.