A recent national survey, Tell Us What Matters, conducted by Landcare Australia, the National Landcare Network, and State and Territory Landcare Organisations, paints a compelling picture of how landcare activities are strengthening community connections across Australia. The findings reveal that many Australians are forming new friendships and experiencing a deeper sense of belonging through their involvement in landcare.
The Landcare Week national survey offers a powerful snapshot of the benefits of environmental and community volunteering—even for those who contribute just a few hours a week.
Among the most commonly reported outcomes:
- 87% of landcare volunteers feel more connected to nature in their local area
- 79% say they’ve built stronger social ties through volunteering
In 2025, Landcare Week runs from August 4 to 10, and this year it coincides with Loneliness Awareness Week Australia. The survey results serve as a timely reminder that landcare is about more than caring for land, waterways, and coasts—it’s about cultivating community. Through a wide range of activities, landcare is helping thousands of Australians come together to share knowledge, volunteer their time, and care for the country’s soil, plants, animals, and ecosystems.
Survey participants shared personal stories of connection, such as:
“I’ve got to know my neighbours through our common interest in caring for our local park.”
“Landcare enables me to mix with people from a wide variety of age groups who I would not otherwise have met.”
80% of respondents said they’ve made new friends or social connections through landcare or other community-led environmental groups.
This year’s Landcare Week theme, Landcare is for Everyone (L.I.F.E), celebrates the thousands of individuals, groups, and organisations working to restore, enhance, and protect Australia’s natural and agricultural landscapes. The campaign aims to raise awareness and inspire people of all ages and backgrounds to get involved with their local landcare or environmental group.
And with Loneliness Awareness Week coinciding with Landcare Week, it’s the perfect moment to encourage one another to connect, build friendships, and make a difference—together.