How to introduce yourself and get to know your new neighbours
Moving house isn’t just about new carpet and fresh paint. It’s about people, too. The ones you’ll wave to across the street, share a fence with and maybe even the ones you’ll swap recipes or tools with. Making the first move matters because those early hellos often shape how at home you feel.
So, how do you introduce yourself to new neighbours without feeling awkward? And why should you bother in the first place? Let’s talk about why neighbours count, what’s happening in Australian neighbourhoods right now, and the simple things you can do to build those connections.
Why connecting with neighbours matters
Neighbours can make or break how you feel about where you live. A friendly nod when you’re both dragging out the wheelie bins, a quick chat at the letterbox, even just knowing which dog belongs to which yard — it makes a difference.
It’s not just about being nice. Practical stuff matters too. A neighbour who knows you is more likely to notice if your car lights are left on, if a parcel’s sitting on the doorstep, or if something doesn’t look right.
And then there’s the emotional side of it. Living somewhere where people recognise your face — even if you’re not best mates — gives you a sense of belonging. A neighbourhood can feel safer, warmer, more like home when people look out for each other.
How connected are Australian neighbourhoods in 2025?
Australians are starting to put community back on the radar. After years of busy, sometimes disconnected living, more people are realising how good it feels to know the people next door.
At Real Insurance, we’ve seen it in our own research: According to the Real Neighbours Report 2025, the majority of us (64%) agree that being friendly and approachable is key to being a good neighbour.
Our look at Australia’s friendliest suburbs also showed some areas where community spirit is alive and well — think street BBQs, neighbours on first-name terms, and active local groups.
But even outside those suburbs, there’s a shift happening. More of us are joining local Facebook groups, turning up at markets, or simply saying “hi” more often. You don’t have to know everyone on your street, but Aussies are waking up to the fact that a little connection goes a long way.
Practical ways to build connections with new neighbours
There’s no single script for meeting neighbours, but here are a few ways that feel natural.
1. Join local community groups or sports clubs
Sport has always been a big connector in Australia. Local footy clubs, Pilate studios, or even walking groups bring people together around a shared activity. Councils usually list clubs and classes, and there’s always a Facebook group or two floating around. Showing up regularly means you’ll start seeing the same faces, and those repeated hellos turn into real conversations.
2. Support nearby local businesses
The café down the road, the Friday night food trucks, the farmers’ market are where locals gather. Become a regular and you’ll naturally meet people who live nearby. A chat with the barista about your order might lead to a conversation with someone sitting at the next table. It’s small, everyday stuff, but it’s how connections often begin.
3. Attend neighbourhood events and festivals
Markets, school fetes, council-run street parties — these events are built for connection. Instead of rushing through, linger. Stay for the sausage sizzle, browse the stalls slowly, and join in the activities. People remember the faces they see more than once, and before you know it, you’re part of the rhythm of the place.
4. Volunteer at community or charity events
There’s something about working alongside others that makes it easy to connect. Whether it’s a weekend clean-up, a food drive, or helping at a fundraiser, volunteering lets people see you as someone who contributes. And that reputation sticks. It’s also a fast track to friendships with people who value the same things you do.
5. Get involved in local hobbies
Neighbourhood hobbies can be as simple as a community garden or as niche as a knitting group. Even walking your dog at the same time each day gets you into a rhythm with other locals. It’s about showing up consistently, in small ways.
How to introduce yourself to neighbours the right way
That first “hello” can feel awkward, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some do’s and don’ts to help you get started:
| Do | Don’t |
| Smile and keep your body language open | Overstay your welcome on the first visit |
| Bring a small gesture (baked goods, a plant, or a friendly card) | Arrive at awkward times (late at night, early morning) |
| Keep the introduction brief and polite | Be pushy or overshare personal details |
| Respect cultural differences and personal space | Ignore signals if your neighbour isn’t receptive |
Some people go old-school and knock on the door with a quick hello. Others let it happen naturally — a chat while gardening or while putting the bins out. If you’re the social type, hosting a small housewarming and inviting a few neighbours works well. Whatever you choose, keep it light. You’re not trying to make a best friend in five minutes; just opening the door to goodwill.
What to do if connecting feels difficult
Not every neighbour is keen for a chat, and that’s fine. If you’re shy or if people seem reserved, start small. A nod, a smile, or a “good morning” builds familiarity over time.
If face-to-face feels too much, many suburbs have active online groups — Facebook, WhatsApp, even old-school noticeboards. These can be easier entry points, and you’ll still feel part of what’s going on.
And if someone really doesn’t seem interested? Respect their space. Not every connection works out, but others will. Focus your energy where it’s welcome.
Building long-term neighbourhood connections
The first hello is just the beginning. What really matters is what comes after. Offering to bring in the bins when someone’s away. Checking in if you haven’t seen a neighbour in a while. Saying yes when they ask to borrow something. These small gestures can build trust.
Over time, you’ll notice a shift. It’s not about knowing every detail of each other’s lives, but about creating a street or building where people feel comfortable leaning on one another. That’s what turns a house into a home — being part of a community, not just a postcode.
Frequently asked questions about new neighbours
Is it normal to not know your neighbours well?
Yes, very normal. According to the Real Neighbours Report 2025, almost three-quarters of Australians (72%) say we’ve become less interested in knowing our neighbours than we were 20 years ago. Plenty of Australians only know one or two households nearby. But making even a small effort, whether that be a wave or a quick chat, can change the whole feel of your street.
What should I do if my neighbours aren’t friendly?
Keep it polite. Some people value their privacy more than others. Don’t force it, just focus on neighbours or community groups where the connection feels natural.
How do I connect with neighbours in an apartment building?
Apartments usually have built-in meeting points: lifts, foyers, laundry rooms, and courtyards. A friendly hello in these spaces goes a long way. You could also attend strata meetings or post a note on the noticeboard if you want to start something small, like a book swap or walking group.
Settle in with Real Insurance
Moving into a new place is about more than unpacking boxes. It’s about finding your feet in a new community. A wave, a chat, a little effort to connect can make your neighbourhood feel safer and friendlier.
At Real Insurance, we’re here to support that journey. With simple financial protection for every stage of life, you can get back building the relationships that make your community feel like yours.
1 Dec 2025