UPDATE: A shocking new report reveals that 12% of Australians currently report having no close friends, indicating a troubling decline in traditional notions of mateship. The Real Relationships Report 2025, commissioned by Real Insurance and MYMAVINS, highlights how digital culture and rising costs are impacting social connections across the nation.
The report, released earlier today, found that the largest group of respondents—28%—reported having three to four close friends. Meanwhile, a significant 25% admitted to having just one or two. Strikingly, Gen Z and Gen Y reported an average of four close friends, while Gen X averaged just over three. In contrast, Baby Boomers claimed five close friends on average, suggesting a generational divide in social connections.
In an alarming trend, over half of Gen Z respondents, specifically 54%, reported experiencing “ghosting” from friends—the highest rate among all generations. The report also indicates that 50% of all participants find it harder to make new friends or date due to escalating pressures from digital culture.
“The digital platforms that many rely on for connection are also sources of social fatigue,” the report states.
The emotional impact is particularly severe for women, with nearly 57% expressing that dating has become significantly more challenging, compared to only 45% of men. Despite these challenges, the average Australian spends $198.50 monthly on dating, with men shelling out approximately $222.30, while women spend around $174.10.
Moreover, a concerning 37% of Gen Z respondents admitted feeling more connected to online personalities than to people they engage with in real life. Almost one-third reported feelings of social isolation, and nearly 75% of Gen Z cited “digital fatigue” from the demands of maintaining online relationships.
The report further emphasizes a decline in community interest, with 72% of respondents believing that neighborhood engagement has waned. Disturbingly, 62% of those surveyed reported living next to someone for more than six months without ever meeting them.
This decline in social connections has profound implications for mental health and well-being. Support services are available for those experiencing distress. Contact Lifeline at 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue at 1300 224 636 for assistance.
As Australians navigate these changing social landscapes, it remains crucial to foster genuine connections both online and offline. Watch for further updates on this developing story as the impact of these findings unfolds across communities throughout Australia.
