Very Neighbourly Tips

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  1. Start simply with a smile – this can lead to a friendly hello and conversation.
  2. Share some home cooking as a welcome to a new neighbour or a friendly gesture to neighbours you already know.
  3. Offer to bring in your neighbour’s bins or their mail when they go away.
  4. Find a common interest – do you both have young children or pets? Are you into outdoor exercise? Arrange to go for a walk together or organise a playdate.
  5. Join your local neighbourhood group or association, or volunteer with a local community group.
  6. Joining a local sporting group is a great way to meet the locals.
  7. Invite a neighbour over for a cuppa or a barby – a good conversation starter is asking how long they have lived in the area.
  8. If you have a veggie garden share surplus fruits and veggies with your neighbours.
  9. Try carpooling if your kids go to the same school, or you work/shop in the same area.
  10. Make a special effort to introduce yourself to older residents and anyone who lives alone. Leave them your mobile or home phone number for use in an emergency.
  11. Be kind. Offer to help where you are able. Or offer a listening ear or friendly support.
  12. Introduce yourself or connect with neighbours you find difficult to meet in person with a simple postcard (a friendly message + your name and address) as an icebreaker.
  13. Exchange phone numbers and let your neighbours know you are happy to be of assistance in case of emergency.
  14. Offer to help your neighbours out when they are away. You could offer to collect their mail, mow their nature strip and keep a watchful eye on their property.
  15. Organise a street clean-up or a ‘gardening bee’ with other neighbours. You could join the local bushcare group.
  16. Link people you know may appreciate each other’s company in your street, or in your neighbourhood. Communities need more people to make an effort to connect others.
  17. Take the initiative – organise a simple Neighbour Day event and remember that every day can be neighbour day. You can invite new neighbours to join in and meet established neighbours.
  18. It’s important to understand that some neighbours may decline your welcoming approach. Respect their choice and build connections with others living nearby.