URGENT UPDATE: As loneliness reaches epidemic levels in Australia, communities are rallying to reconnect in 2025. New reports reveal that nearly one in three Australians report feeling lonely, prompting a surge in participation at local community events and volunteering opportunities.
At the forefront of this movement is the Neighbourhood House, where residents are gathering for free lunches and social activities. These community centres are pivotal in fostering connections among individuals who feel increasingly isolated. With social psychologist Hugh Mackay warning that “we are born to connect, but lonelier than ever,” it’s clear that the need for community is urgent.
The decline in civic participation mirrors trends observed in the United States, as documented in Robert Putnam‘s book, *Bowling Alone*. Fast forward to today, and the symptoms are more pronounced: Australians are engaging less in social clubs, volunteering, and have diminished trust in institutions. As political polarization rises, the impacts on mental health are dire.
In a striking effort to combat this trend, many are turning to traditional activities like running clubs and improvised comedy courses. One participant noted the “low-stakes friendliness” at a local running group, which has become a crucial source of social support.
Dr. Laurie Santos, a renowned psychology professor at Yale, emphasizes the importance of social connections in her widely popular course, *Psychology and the Good Life*. According to Santos, activities that involve helping others can significantly reduce stress and improve overall well-being. “Engaging in prosocial activities fosters a sense of purpose,” she explains.
Judith Dickson, a dedicated volunteer, highlights that community engagement has taught her, “I’m not alone.” Her decades of involvement in various causes illustrate the transformative power of community, providing insight and perspective that often leads to deeper connections.
However, the road to community engagement is not without obstacles. Mark Pearce, CEO of Volunteering Australia, acknowledges the challenges posed by bureaucratic processes surrounding volunteer opportunities. “The growing administrative burden puts many people off,” he states, indicating a need for more accessible paths to volunteering.
Despite these barriers, informal volunteering is on the rise, with as many as 6 million Australians participating in spontaneous community efforts. This shift indicates a grassroots movement towards collective action, often facilitated through social media platforms.
In a personal journey to rediscover community, one individual sought out various local initiatives, from running clubs to language exchanges. Although initially daunting, the consistent effort led to rewarding connections, exemplifying the “reciprocity” that strengthens communal bonds.
Mackay warns that increasing individualism poses a significant threat to social cohesion. He stresses the importance of inviting diverse individuals into community spaces, as shared humanity transcends personal differences. “In a fire or flood, you just help,” he reminds us, underscoring the inherent goodness that binds us.
As the search for community evolves, the emphasis on genuine connections becomes paramount. Libraries and local centres are stepping up as hubs for engagement, offering a variety of events that encourage participation.
The message is clear: in 2025, the desire for community is stronger than ever. As Australians navigate feelings of isolation, they are learning that true connection requires effort, openness, and a willingness to engage with those around them. In the words of Mackay, “The state of the nation starts in your street.”
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as communities across Australia work to reclaim connection and combat loneliness.
