Australians are being urged to reach out to those around them as new figures show one in four people are experiencing loneliness, prompting a national call to action ahead of Neighbour Day on Sunday.

Relationships Australia says loneliness has increased from one in five people in 2022 to one in four, with young adults among the hardest hit. One in three people aged 18 to 24 report feeling lonely always or frequently.

The organisation is using Neighbour Day, held on March 29, to encourage simple acts of connection under this year’s theme, Belonging Every Day.

National executive officer Nick Tebbey said small gestures could make a meaningful difference.

“We all have a role to play in making sure the people around us feel seen, valued and included,” he said.

“Neighbour Day is a reminder that connection starts with us. And it doesn’t have to be complicated.”

Relationships Australia points to growing evidence linking chronic loneliness to poor mental health outcomes and increased risk of suicide, describing the issue as a significant and worsening public health concern.

However, research suggests simple, everyday interactions — such as checking in on a neighbour or having a conversation — can improve people’s sense of belonging and connection to their community.

Independent evaluations by the Australian National University and the University of Queensland found 85 per cent of people involved in the Neighbours Every Day campaign reported getting to know their neighbours better, with most of those connections lasting over time. More than 60 per cent also reported improved mental health outcomes.

The campaign, which runs year-round, has been recognised in Australia’s National Suicide Prevention Strategy and by the World Health Organization as an evidence-based approach to strengthening social connection.

Relationships Australia is encouraging people to mark Neighbour Day with simple actions, such as hosting a morning tea, sharing produce or spending a few extra minutes talking with neighbours.

The organisation has also called on the federal government to expand funding for the campaign in the 2026 Budget, arguing it delivers strong social and mental health benefits at relatively low cost.