strengthening the social fabric

Publica is a policy and advocacy organisation dedicated to fostering friendship, strengthening families, and building close-knit communities across Australia.

Overcoming Loneliness & Building Authentic Relationships

Sam Farren on Healthy Masculinity & Community for Young Adults

In this interview, Isabella Clarke sits down with Sam Farren, youth and young adults pastor, to discuss relational issues affecting young adults in the church and broader society. The conversation explores the loneliness epidemic, challenges affecting young men in the church today, and opportunities to support young people in forming thriving friendships and relationships.
The Silent Epidemic: Unravelling the Complexities of Loneliness Among Young Australians

In the bustling cities and quiet towns across Australia, a silent epidemic is taking hold among the nation’s youth. While the majority of young adults navigate their daily lives with a sense of connection and belonging, an increasing number are grappling with a pervasive sense of loneliness. This phenomenon, once primarily associated with the elderly, has now emerged as a significant concern for those in the prime of their lives. In an Australian study of nearly 1500 adolescents and young adults, more than one in three (37%) young adults aged 18–25 indicated a problematic level of loneliness.1

Tackling Loneliness - Publica Live Podcast (Recording)

What can churches and community group leaders do about loneliness?

Loneliness is a huge problem in modern Australia. And it has crippling effects on people, not just in terms of mental health but physical health and life expectancy.

Speakers: Sheridan Voysey, Prof. Patrick Parkinson, Nic Mackay and Isabella Clarke

publica Papers

2024 is set to be the loneliest year on record for people in the UK, and the situation may be similar in Australia. UK government…
In the bustling cities and quiet towns across Australia, a silent epidemic is taking hold among the nation’s youth. While the majority of young adults…
In Australia, as in other Western countries, there has been a sharp deterioration in adolescent mental health over the last decade. Around 40% of young…

publica Library

Publica is building up a specialist library of books, articles and other research materials that can assist in the development of public policy to support strong families, healthy relationships and vibrant local communities. There is a physical collection available for loan to members at Level 1, 30 Brisbane St, Launceston, Tas 7250. Opening hours, Monday and Wednesday 11-1 during school term times or otherwise by appointment.
The online library is here. Membership is free.