A directory of belonging
Places where community is built into where you live — not another club to visit, but somewhere the people around you are part of daily life. Monasteries that welcome guests, cohousing, co-ops, ecovillages, seniors villages, and neighbourhoods that actually function. Start where you are.
Compiled with AI, checked by nobody yet. These are starting points, gathered for New South Wales — real places as far as we know, but details change. Verify with a phone call before you set your heart or drive across the state.
A developing cohousing community aiming to create a neighbourhood with private homes and extensive shared facilities, fostering social interaction and mutual support. It's for people interested in active participation in community governance and shared living.
The Commons Newcastle is a modern cohousing development designed for sustainable and community-focused living. It features shared spaces and encourages interaction among residents while maintaining private dwellings.
Visit website →St Michael's House provides affordable shared accommodation for students and young professionals in a supportive community setting. It fosters a sense of belonging through communal meals and shared responsibilities.
A large shared house offering private rooms and communal spaces for individuals seeking a collaborative and social living environment. It's designed for those who enjoy shared meals, activities, and a sense of belonging.
A modern coliving space offering private rooms within a shared house, designed for young professionals and creatives seeking community and convenience. It fosters social interaction through shared amenities and organised events.
This long-established rural co-operative offers affordable housing and a strong sense of community among its residents. Members actively participate in the management and maintenance of the property, fostering a collaborative living environment.
A supportive housing initiative providing safe, affordable homes for people who have experienced homelessness, with a focus on community building and support services. It offers a stable environment for residents to rebuild their lives.
Visit website →A not-for-profit organisation providing affordable and social housing options, often fostering a sense of community among residents. It aims to create stable and supportive living environments for those in need.
Visit website →This housing cooperative offers affordable and secure housing options for its members in the Newcastle area. Residents actively participate in the management and maintenance of their community.
This co-operative provides affordable and secure housing options for its members in the Wollongong area. Residents are actively involved in the governance and maintenance of their homes, promoting a shared responsibility.
An intentional community focused on sustainable living, shared resources, and strong social connections, with a mix of private homes and shared facilities. It welcomes individuals and families committed to ecological and community values.
Visit website →Although primarily in Queensland, a portion of the community and its influence extends into the northern NSW border region. It is a multi-award-winning sustainable community focused on ecological living and strong social connections.
Visit website →A small, established ecovillage focused on sustainable living, organic farming, and community collaboration. It offers a close-knit environment for residents committed to ecological principles and shared values.
An educational and residential hub focused on sustainable living and regenerative agriculture. It offers opportunities for learning and community engagement within an ecologically minded framework.
Visit website →An educational and residential community focused on permaculture principles, sustainable living, and skill-sharing. It welcomes individuals interested in learning and living a regenerative lifestyle.
Visit website →Wangat Lodge offers a unique off-grid living experience nestled in a beautiful natural setting. It fosters a strong sense of community among residents who share a commitment to sustainable living and environmental stewardship.
Visit website →A Chan Buddhist monastery offering retreats and short-term stays for those interested in meditation and Buddhist practice. It provides a peaceful environment for spiritual growth and community engagement.
Visit website →A Benedictine monastery for women, offering a guesthouse for individuals seeking spiritual retreat, quiet, and a taste of monastic life. They welcome people of all faiths or none, looking for peace and reflection.
Visit website →This meditation centre offers a peaceful environment for spiritual growth and community living. Residents engage in daily meditation practices and contribute to the upkeep of the serene grounds.
Visit website →A Cistercian monastery for men, offering a guesthouse for those seeking quiet reflection, spiritual guidance, or a retreat from daily life. It welcomes individuals of all backgrounds looking for peace and contemplation.
Visit website →A tranquil retreat for the Sisters of the Good Samaritan, The Hermitage offers a contemplative environment. While primarily a convent, it occasionally hosts guests seeking spiritual reflection and community.
Visit website →A religious order with a long history of community service, offering opportunities for lay people to engage in their mission or find spiritual support. While not a traditional guesthouse, they welcome those seeking connection and purpose.
Visit website →This religious community of Sisters of Mercy has a long history of service and communal living in Parramatta. They are involved in various ministries and maintain a strong spiritual presence.
Visit website →This community of Sisters of Mercy is committed to living out their charism of mercy and justice. They are involved in various works, including education and care, serving the needs of the community.
Visit website →This community is home to the Sisters of St Joseph, who live a life of prayer and service. They are actively involved in various ministries, contributing to the local community and beyond.
Visit website →This religious community of Sisters is dedicated to prayer, service, and living a communal life. They engage in various ministries while maintaining a contemplative and supportive environment.
Visit website →The Sisters of the Good Samaritan live in community, dedicated to their mission of compassion and service. They engage in educational, pastoral, and social justice ministries within the local area.
Visit website →This congregation of Presentation Sisters lives a communal life dedicated to education and social justice. They contribute to the local community through their ministries and shared spiritual journey.
Visit website →Known for its strong community spirit, numerous community groups, and active neighbourhood centres that foster local connections and support. The council actively promotes community engagement and well-being.
Visit website →Offers extensive community programs, neighbourhood centres, and initiatives designed to connect residents and build local resilience. It provides diverse opportunities for social interaction and support across its various suburbs.
Visit website →Actively supports numerous community centres, neighbourhood houses, and social programs aimed at fostering local connections and reducing isolation. It provides resources and spaces for residents to engage and build community.
Visit website →A vibrant seniors' village offering independent living units and a range of community facilities and activities for residents. It provides a supportive environment for older adults to live actively and socially.
Visit website →IRT Woodlands is a vibrant seniors' village offering independent living and a range of community facilities. Residents enjoy an active social calendar and a supportive environment.
Visit website →Kookaburra Village provides a welcoming community for over 55s, offering independent living units and a variety of amenities. Residents can participate in social events and enjoy a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
Visit website →Riverside Gardens offers a peaceful and secure environment for seniors seeking an engaging community lifestyle. Residents enjoy well-maintained facilities and a range of social opportunities to connect with neighbours.
Visit website →Riverside Village is a vibrant seniors' living community designed for independent residents over 55. It offers a range of facilities and social activities that encourage connection and an active lifestyle.
Visit website →The Sanctuary Illawarra is a contemporary retirement village offering independent living options and a strong sense of community. It provides residents with modern facilities and opportunities for social engagement.
Visit website →The Vale is a vibrant seniors' living community designed for active and independent residents. It provides a supportive environment with various social activities and amenities to foster connection and well-being.
Visit website →Wyndham Estate offers a vibrant retirement village lifestyle with a range of independent living units and community facilities. Residents enjoy social activities and a supportive environment within a picturesque setting.
Visit website →The other path
If your state's list is thin, that's not a dead end; it's the reason this project exists. Three friends on one street is already a community. The guide walks you through the whole path.
Start a community — the guide Create or join a group Register your interestBrowse by state