Understanding Social Cohesion 

What Does Social Cohesion Mean? 

Social cohesion is often described as:

• The sense of connection people feel within a community

• The level of trust between people and institutions

• The ability of communities to participate and work together

• Whether people feel they belong and are included

Social cohesion does not mean everyone is the same.

Healthy communities can include:

• Different cultures

• Different backgrounds

• Different beliefs

• Different life experiences

Strong social cohesion means communities are able to:

• Respect difference

• Build trust

• Participate together

• Share public life

• Maintain connection and inclusion

Why Social Cohesion Matters 

Communities with strong social cohesion often experience:

• Greater participation

• Stronger community trust

• Increased resilience

• Better mental wellbeing

• Stronger civic life

• More inclusive public environments

People are more likely to feel connected when communities provide:

• Welcoming public spaces

• Opportunities for participation

• Access to community facilities

• Inclusive local environments

• Everyday opportunities for interaction

Connection and participation help strengthen communities over time.

Social Cohesion and Everyday Life 

Social cohesion influences many parts of everyday life.

This includes:

• Feeling safe in public space

• Participating in community activities

• Feeling represented and included

• Accessing local support networks

• Building relationships and trust

• Participating in civic life

Communities experiencing:

• Isolation

• Exclusion

• Limited public participation

• Reduced trust

• Social fragmentation

can experience weaker community connection over time.

Social cohesion is closely connected to everyday wellbeing.

Diversity and Inclusion 

Greater Western Sydney is one of the most diverse regions in Australia.

Diversity can strengthen communities through:

• Shared knowledge and experiences

• Cultural exchange

• Creativity and innovation

• Broader community perspectives

• Stronger social networks

Inclusive communities help people feel:

• Welcome

• Represented

• Able to participate

• Connected to public life

Social cohesion is strongest when diversity is supported through:

• Inclusion

• Participation

• Respect

• Opportunity

• Access to community life

Social Cohesion and Place 

Social cohesion is not only social.

It is also influenced by place.

Communities are shaped by:

• Public space

• Walkability

• Transport access

• Community facilities

• Libraries and gathering places

• Parks and recreation spaces

• Opportunities for everyday interaction

The design of communities influences how often people:

• Meet

• Interact

• Participate

• Build relationships

Healthy public environments can support stronger community connection and belonging.

Young People and Social Cohesion   

Young people are important participants in community life.

Young people are more likely to feel connected when communities provide:

• Opportunities to participate

• Safe and welcoming public space

• Community activities

• Representation and inclusion

• Leadership pathways

• Social and cultural connection

Participation helps young people:

• Build confidence

• Strengthen civic capability

• Develop leadership skills

• Feel connected to community life

Communities become stronger when young people feel included and valued.

Why This Matters for Greater Western Sydney

Greater Western Sydney continues to experience:

• Rapid population growth

• Increasing diversity

• Urban change

• Infrastructure pressure

• Changing community dynamics

As communities grow, maintaining:

• Connection

• Trust

• Participation

• Inclusion

• Access to community life

becomes increasingly important.

Strong social cohesion helps communities remain resilient, connected and inclusive during periods of growth and change.

Social Cohesion and the Fair Share Framework 

The Fair Share Framework recognises that healthy communities require:

• Fair Voice

• Fair Access

• Fair Opportunity

Social cohesion influences:

• Participation

• Community wellbeing

• Inclusion

• Civic trust

• Access to opportunity

• Everyday quality of life

Healthy communities are not only measured by infrastructure and growth.

They are also measured by how connected people feel within them.

Related Framework Pillars

Further Learning & Career Pathways 

Scanlon Foundation Research Institute

Research focused on social cohesion, belonging and participation across Australia.

Sydney Alliance

Community organising and civic participation initiatives supporting stronger communities across Sydney.

Inner Development Goals

A framework exploring collaboration, leadership and the capabilities needed for long-term systems change.

Western Sydney Moving

A Western Sydney initiative supporting youth creativity, participation and community connection.

Related Resources  

• Why Belonging Matters

• Youth, Belonging and Civic Voice

• Community Leadership and Shared Values

• Public Space, Connection and Community Life

• What Makes a Community Feel Connected?

• Inclusive Communities and Everyday Belonging