Minister for Mental Health, Rose Jackson has written to Chair of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Social Issues, the Hon Dr. Sarah Kaine, to request the Committee undertake an Inquiry into Loneliness in New South Wales.
The first of its kind Inquiry in New South Wales, will:
- Examine the extent, causes and impacts of loneliness
- Review how other regions are addressing loneliness
- Assist in identifying those most at risk of social isolation in the state
- Identify steps for the NSW Government and community can take to reduce its prevalence and impacts
Loneliness occurs when a person experiences distress from greater levels of social disconnection than they desire. Whilst isolation or being alone does not necessarily mean a person is lonely, recent studies have highlighted loneliness as a growing experience.
In 2022, a Community Wellbeing Survey, by the Mental Health Commission found that nearly 40% of NSW residents experience loneliness at varying degrees, with those facing mental health challenges almost twice as likely to feel isolated.
Sydney has also been identified as the city with the most singles with 1.7 million Sydneysiders living alone or currently single.
Further, loneliness is not just an emotional burden, with studies highlighting its link to premature death, poor physical and mental health and increased psychological distress.
The Committee will work with mental health experts, advocates, and those with a lived experience of loneliness while undertaking this Inquiry.
Terms of Reference can be viewed here: https://bit.ly/3WScRrA
Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson:
“Loneliness is more than just an emotional experience; it has profound impacts on our mental and physical health. This inquiry will help us better understand the issue and pave the way for practical solutions to bring our communities closer together.
“With this NSW Government inquiry, we aim to delve deeper into loneliness, which has emerged as a significant public health issue following the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The NSW Government cares deeply about this issue, this inquiry shows our political leaders are sitting up, taking notice and want action to support people who might be struggling.
“While some people call loneliness the silent epidemic, it doesn't have to be suffered in silence. If you are experiencing loneliness, please speak up and reach out—there are supports available across NSW.”
Quotes attributable to Sarah Kaine MLC, Chair of Loneliness Inquiry:
“The face of loneliness is often unexpected and touches many in our community. Almost everyone has felt alone at some point in their lives and I think it is important our political leaders are taking notice and taking action.
“I’m looking forward to hearing directly from experts and the community about what we can do better to support people who need support.”
Quotes attributable to Bran Black, Chief Executive Business Council of Australia:
“There is growing evidence that loneliness is having a measurable impact on our society and economy, and it is becoming increasingly important we examine ways to prevent people feeling isolated.
“Loneliness can cause many other conditions and this inquiry will assist in identifying what more can be done to address this growing problem, particularly in our workplaces and communities.”
Quotes attributable to Elisabeth Shaw, Chief Executive Officer of Relationships Australia - NSW:
“Humans are social beings. We vary in how much human contact we need, but we all need others to survive and thrive, emotionally and physically. Intimate or familial relationships, friends, neighbourhoods, workplaces and interest groups all play a part.
“You can be lonely due to lack of social connections, and you can be surrounded by others and feel deeply lonely. The ramifications of loneliness can be life threatening.
“Loneliness is an experience we all have from time to time. When it becomes chronic is can lead to further impoverishment in terms of identity, life experience, confidence, and can even shorten your lifespan.”
Comments attributable to Martin Blake, Groundswell Foundation Chairman
“A growing body of evidence demonstrates how prevalent loneliness is in Australia and around the world – and its harmful consequences if left unaddressed. The impacts of loneliness are equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes or having six alcoholic drinks per day.
“Loneliness has a measurable economic impact – in Australia, the healthcare costs associated with loneliness are estimated at up to $2.7 billion each year in a 2021 report from Curtin University.”
