An inquiry was established to inquire into and report on the prevalence, causes and impacts of loneliness in New South Wales (NSW). Loneliness is a deeply complex and widespread social issue that requires a comprehensive and multilayered response. Loneliness is only problematic if it becomes persistent or particularly severe. 

The inquiry found that many people in NSW are experiencing loneliness for ongoing periods, with significant impacts on their physical and mental health, social behaviour, and educational and employment outcomes. This report makes 8 findings and 20 recommendations. It examines the nexus between loneliness and mental health, identifies the cohorts most at risk and outlines developments in other jurisdictions in Australia and internationally.

The report finds that the key to addressing loneliness is to build meaningful connections and a sense of belonging and purpose. Addressing loneliness requires the collective effort of government, the health sector, the private sector, the workplace, researchers, community groups and individuals across every community.

The report recommends that the government embrace a multilayered, whole of society framework, in which loneliness is addressed at the individual, community and population levels.

Key findings

• Socioeconomic disadvantage and perceived financial hardship are proving a barrier to social connectedness.
• Intersecting risk factors, discrimination and marginalisation may have compounding effects on loneliness.
• Loneliness is associated with a range of health concerns, both physical and mental, as well as impacts on social behaviour and educational and work outcomes.
• There are protective factors that may mitigate the experience of loneliness.
• Neighbourhood centres and volunteering programs, as well as participation with local sporting and social clubs, provide opportunities to build quality social connections, a sense of belonging and purpose and community participation, that may mitigate the experience of loneliness.
• Strategies to enable the development and maintenance of social connection must take into consideration urban design, green spaces and third spaces such as community centres and libraries.