Tackling social isolation and loneliness: How can community-led innovation make a difference?

Hear firsthand from Communities Innovation Fund (CIF) grant recipients tackling social isolation and loneliness through innovative, grassroots programs.

Ethni Inc, You Belong, and Mareeba Shire Council will share practical, community-led approaches taken in their projects, the outcomes they’re achieving, and what they’ve learned along the way.

These projects range from using sport to welcome seasonal workers in regional Queensland, to empowering young culturally and linguistically (CALD) women through a flower-based social enterprise, and training peer volunteers to support migrants and refugees with practical, culturally sensitive help at home.

What you’ll gain:

Practical strategies that empower culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities and foster meaningful social connection
Insights into how organisations are adapting to evolving community needs
Lessons from on-the-ground projects already making an impact.
This is also a valuable opportunity to network with peers and gain valuable insights into how Queensland communities are fostering inclusion and connection.

About the Social Isolation and Loneliness Community of Practice: 

In response to the Parliamentary Inquiry into Social Isolation and Loneliness (2022), QCOSS, in partnership with DFSDSCS, launched a Community of Practice designed for frontline professionals across various sectors, including community services and health.

This initiative aims to enhance the capacity of professionals working with individuals who experience social isolation and loneliness, which can affect people at any life stage and lead to significant mental and physical health challenges. By building skills and knowledge in this area, we can create lasting, positive impacts for individuals and communities. 

This session was recorded on 11 June 2025.