The group will help design and support local projects that improve mental health, reduce loneliness, and build stronger, more welcoming communities.

Supported by the City of Greater Geelong, this group is especially for people who have experienced loneliness or social isolation and want to help make things better for others in similar situations.

SIAGs are a collaboration between State and Local Governments as a response to the Royal Commission into the Mental Health System.

Find out more about the background of SIAGS.

What does the group do?

SIAG is about listening, sharing, and working together to create positive change and reducing social isolation and loneliness. The group aims to:

• Bring together a wide mix of community voices — young and old, from different cultures, abilities, and life experiences.
• Gives members the chance to share their lived experience and shape local projects that support inclusion.
• Offers training, mentoring, and support
• Meets every two weeks from September 2025, and then monthly from December 2025, to talk about issues that matter and co-design local solutions.
• Members will be paid for their time and will be supported with their access needs — including transport, childcare, and other supports to make joining in easier.

Belonging in Geelong Needs Analysis

We've completed the Belonging in Geelong Needs Analysis. This important report helps us understand what contributes to loneliness and social isolation in Greater Geelong.

How we created this report:

• We used data from the Geelong Preventative Health Survey - City of Greater Geelong
• We listened to stories and ideas from around 50 people at our 2025 Loneliness Forum, facilitated by Friends for Good
• We combined the numbers with real experiences from local groups

What we found:

•  25% of Geelong residents feel lonely.
• Some groups are at much higher risk - including young people (60% of 18-24 year olds), people with disability (61%), and single parents (57%)
• Barriers like transport, cost, and discrimination make it hard for people to connect
• We also found many local strengths and programs already making a difference
• What people want for the future: A Geelong that is safe, welcoming and community-driven, with accessible transport, affordable spaces, diverse festivals, and everyday opportunities to connect.