Valentine's Day can bring feelings of love and celebration for some, but for others, the love in the air serves as a reminder of their loneliness. Recent research from Relationships Australia NSW (RANSW) has highlighted the need for increased support, especially as loneliness continues to escalate among younger individuals, coupled with a growing trend of Australians saying ‘I don't’ to traditional marriage.

Elisabeth Shaw, CEO of RANSW, emphasises that the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey signals a rapid evolution in Australia's relationship landscape, warranting government funding for support services. Ms. Shaw acknowledges the survey as a crucial step in understanding the daily struggles faced by a growing number of Australians. She notes “This survey is a welcome step in shining a spotlight on the issues a growing number of Australians are dealing with daily, but sadly it comes as no surprise.”

The shifting dynamics of relationships, particularly evident in the dating scene where 'situationships' often eclipse the focus on building lasting connections, contribute to a decline in commitment and monogamy among the younger generation. The survey reveals a decreasing preference for marriage, and statistics show that those in de facto relationships have a higher likelihood of separation. 

However, Ms. Shaw expresses “couples with children under 5 years of age and single parents are all more likely to experience stress and loneliness, so there needs to be a greater focus on support for families on both parenting and relationships.”

RANSW's latest Social Impact report underscores the impact of seeking assistance in navigating relationship challenges, leading to significant improvements in satisfaction and well-being.

Ms. Shaw urges the Australian government to respond to this pressing need by increasing funding and support for core relationship services, particularly counselling, which has proven to be essential in making a substantial difference for those seeking help. 

As the challenges of loneliness and shifting relationship dynamics persist, the call to enhance support becomes more urgent than ever, fostering strong and resilient connections among individuals and families.