'Hi Neighbours' initiative - Creating community and connection

Last modified on 03 March 2023

‘Hi Neighbours’, a community focussed project to reduce social isolation amongst Willoughby Council’s apartment residents is proving to be a great success, with more apartments now invited to take part.

Residents of high rise apartments have been connecting with their neighbours through various events and activities to create cohesive, friendly 'vertical communities’.

The initiative was developed in response to Willoughby Council’s Community Wellbeing Survey, indicating higher rates of loneliness and isolation amongst apartment residents compared to people living in houses.

Since August 2022, Willoughby’s ‘Hi Neighbours’ project has connected over 500 residents across two Chatswood apartment sites via community led events and activities including BBQs, kids’ activities, cultural celebrations, movie nights and walking groups.

These neighbour initiatives have been developed and led by resident volunteers, working collectively to develop and test their ideas on the best way to build connection.

Following this success, Willoughby City Council is partnering with Lane Cove Council to offer the ‘Hi Neighbours’ project to more apartment residents across both council areas.

Council is seeking Expressions of Interest for apartment buildings keen to participate in the project, and offering funding of up to $300 to strata bodies or owners corporations that deliver neighbour activities within the building or complex.

For more information on how you can get involved join our online briefing session on Monday 27 March, 6-7pm.

As part of the initiative Council has developed a variety of resources in a ‘Meet Your Neighbours’ toolkit with practical tips and ideas on how to get involved.