Per-capita community-fund allocation to LGAs for grassroots loneliness, sport and arts grants — light-touch acquittal.
WHY NOW
Loneliness now widespread; LGAs are best-placed to deploy small funding fast.
SUCCESS METRIC
Participation surveys, club retention
ORGANISATIONS
COHORTS
LIFE AREAS
Community phone booths in libraries
Put a dedicated Centrelink phone (free call, comfortable chair, privacy) in every public library. Already have the infrastructure; partner with local-government-services library networks.
Fund 2 hours/week of myGov help at every public library. Trained volunteer helps people log in, link services, update details.
Council What's available noticeboards
Every council office, library, and community centre has a simple noticeboard (physical + digital) listing: free meals, legal aid, financial counselling, emergency housing, mental health drop-in — with addresses and hours. Updated monthly.
Council-backed shared housing matchmaking
Council-backed service matching compatible housemates (verified, references checked) for people who can't afford to rent alone. Like flatmates.com.au but with council backing and safety checks.