21/05/2026
The Australian Bureau of Statistics has released its refreshed General Social Survey, offering a snapshot of how Australians are feeling, connecting, and participating in community life.
One finding stood out to us: only 53% of Australians reported having weekly in-person contact with family or friends outside their household in 2025 – higher than during the pandemic, but still below 2019 levels.
The survey also found that people with low life satisfaction were significantly more likely to experience high mental distress, loneliness, low trust in others, and disconnection from their communities.
Research consistently shows that healthy relationships and social connection aren’t just good for us emotionally – they’re protective factors for our mental and overall health.
In our work every day, we see how strong relationships support wellbeing, resilience, and a sense of belonging – especially during periods of stress, uncertainty, or change.
As loneliness and social isolation continue to grow across Australia, strengthening social connection is becoming an increasingly important part of supporting community wellbeing.
Read the full General Social Survey results on the ABS website:
https://bit.ly/3R4G3vb
