Whether you're a social butterfly with a broken wing or someone who finds small talk terrifying, the upcoming Human Connection Course could be just what you, or someone in your community, needs.

Led by Kylie Ferguson, founder of Janteloven, this short and fun five-week course is all about building confidence, boosting self-esteem, and getting better at the kinds of conversations that form the bedrock of real relationships.

Date: Remaining sessions are 20 June, 27 June, 4 July

Where: Minor Works Community Centre

Book now:  info@janteloven.org

Thirty-nine grassroots organisations across South Australia will receive $755,000 in funding through Grants SA Social Impact.

This funding round is supporting a wide range of community-led initiatives, including youth leadership, disability inclusion, and safe spaces for connection and support. 

Learn more here.

Japan has launched a new national strategy to tackle loneliness and social isolation, recognising them as serious societal issues.

The plan emphasises community engagement, mental health support, and digital inclusion to strengthen social connections.

Key measures include targeted interventions for vulnerable groups, enhanced public awareness campaigns, and collaborations across sectors to foster a more connected society.

Learn more about Japan’s efforts here.

Flinders University is tackling youth loneliness through a co-designed research project led by Dr Ben Lohmeyer in collaboration with the SA Youth Forum.

The study explores how young people experience loneliness and identifies solutions.

Peer researchers engaged with students at the Specialised Assistance School for Youth, using visual mapping and interviews to uncover insights.

The findings provide a proof of concept for future research expansion, ensuring young voices shape effective strategies.

Learn more about this initiative here.

ABC’s Ladies, We Need to Talk podcast explores the hidden toll of loneliness, particularly among women.

Host Yumi Stynes speaks with women experiencing loneliness in different life stages—one within a marriage, another seeking connection—and examines the emotional and health impacts of isolation.

Psychologist Dr Bella Ingram shares practical strategies for building meaningful relationships and overcoming social barriers.

The episode highlights how open conversations about loneliness can help break stigma and foster connection.

Listen to the full discussion here.

Monash University’s Pets and People pilot program is using shared interest in animals to reduce loneliness and social isolation among older adults in aged care and international university students.

Funded by the National Centre for Healthy Ageing, the program includes animal-focused activities, robotic pets, and live animals to foster connection.

Participants reported significant reductions in loneliness and improved well-being, with pets helping to break the ice and encourage conversation.

The study highlights the power of intergenerational engagement in tackling social isolation.

Learn more about the initiative here

Ending Loneliness Together, together with Relationships Australia have released two new resources on ‘Fostering connection in shared spaces’ and ‘belonging on a budget.’

Find out more about how you can break down barriers and foster connection today.

This month, the Campaign to End Loneliness is marking Loneliness Awareness Week, a key moment in the year to reflect on what loneliness means, who it affects, and how we respond.

The theme for 2025, ‘reducing stigma’ through the creative theme ‘meeting loneliness together’, invites us to challenge common assumptions and open up more honest conversations about loneliness in all its forms.

Read more