How to Make Friends in Your 40s in Australia: 10 Practical Tips

Why Making Friends in Your 40s Matters

Life in your 40s is often busy—careers, family, and responsibilities leave little time for socialising. Yet strong friendships are vital for happiness, mental health, and overall wellbeing. While making friends later in life can feel intimidating, Australia’s welcoming culture and endless opportunities make it an ideal place to build new social connections.

Here are 10 practical strategies to help you make friends in your 40s in Australia and form meaningful, lasting relationships.

1. Join Local Social Groups and Meetups

Websites like Meetup.com and Eventbrite are filled with activities ranging from book clubs to hiking groups. Attending events that align with your hobbies makes connecting with like-minded people feel natural and enjoyable.

Tip: Choose one group and attend regularly—familiar faces quickly turn into friends.

2. Embrace Outdoor Activities

Australia is blessed with stunning landscapes, and outdoor activities are a great way to bond. Try a local bushwalking group, surf lesson, or sports league. Sharing adventures in nature builds friendships through shared experiences.

3. Take Classes or Workshops

Whether it’s a cooking class, pottery course, or dance workshop, group learning creates a relaxed environment for making friends. Plus, you gain a new skill while expanding your social circle.

4. Volunteer in Your Community

Volunteering connects you with people who share your values. From charity events to environmental projects, Australia offers endless opportunities to give back while building meaningful relationships.

5. Use Social Media and Friendship Apps

Platforms like Bumble BFF and Facebook Groups make it easy to find others in your area also looking for new friendships. Many groups are tailored to people in their 40s, making it simple to connect with peers in a similar life stage.

6. Attend Local Events and Festivals

From food markets to arts festivals and community fairs, Australia’s cultural calendar is packed with opportunities to meet people. These fun, relaxed settings make starting conversations feel effortless.

7. Connect with Your Neighbours

Sometimes the best friendships start close to home. Attend neighbourhood barbecues, community gatherings, or local meetups. A friendly chat across the fence could grow into a lasting bond.

8. Stay Open to New Experiences

Making friends in your 40s often means stepping outside your comfort zone. Be open-minded, try new hobbies, and show genuine interest in others. Australians are known for their easygoing nature—so a smile and a friendly chat can go a long way.

9. Join Sports or Fitness Classes

From yoga and pilates to rock climbing and boot camps, fitness classes create natural opportunities to connect. Regular sessions help friendships form organically over time.

10. Be Yourself and Enjoy the Process

The most important step in making new friends is being authentic. People are drawn to those who are genuine and confident in who they are. Focus on enjoying the journey rather than forcing friendships—connections will grow naturally.

Final Thoughts

Making friends in your 40s in Australia is absolutely achievable with the right mindset. By joining local groups, attending events, volunteering, and embracing new opportunities, you can create a vibrant and supportive social circle.

Friendships may take time to develop, but they are well worth the effort. In your 40s, the bonds you form are often deeper, more intentional, and truly enriching. Step out, be yourself, and let Australia’s welcoming culture guide you toward new and meaningful connections.