Queenslanders seeking face-to-face connection in changing times

Queenslanders are more than ever seeking face-to-face communication at their local community clubs as changing technology impacts daily lives across the state. Clubs Queensland, the peak body for more than 1200 community clubs across the state, has released in-depth findings into a survey of 930 Queenslanders who are members of clubs including surf lifesaving, sporting, RSLs, cultural, golf and bowls organisations. The survey, released in Community Club Awareness Week 2025, shines a light on Queenslanders’ attitudes towards technology, cost-of-living pressures and the importance of community. The survey’s findings included:

 Two-thirds of respondents said face-to-face was their preferred form of communication and 43 percent of respondents said the value they placed on talking to people face-to-face had increased in the last 12 months

 At the same time, 37 per cent of respondents said they used social media platforms for more than one hour a day and 20 per cent said their use of social media had increased in the last 12 months. But only 7 per cent said social media platforms were their preferred form of communication.

 Almost 75 per cent of all people surveyed said their visits to their community clubs were important for their social interactions while 90 per cent said their clubs were important to their communities.

 One-in-seven Queenslanders said they would like their social circle to include more people.

“This survey has highlighted the value in Queenslanders being able to enjoy each other’s company face-to-face at a time when technology is a growing part of everyday life and we seem to be busier than ever,” Clubs Queensland CEO Kelly Egan said. “It’s easy to get lost in the daily busyness of our lives but the value of being able to spend time with someone face-to-face is clear. Community clubs have been an ideal place for Queenslanders to meet and form friendships for decades and their importance continues.” Each year, Queensland’s community clubs return over $460 million in community contributions and generate annual economic activity valued at more than $2 billion for the state’s economy. Community clubs more than 23,000 people, with a combined 4.1 million memberships. “Our clubs only exist because of our communities. Good communities look out for each other and provide
support in times of need,” Mr Egan said.

The survey also revealed Queenslanders’ feelings towards the cost-of-living pressures that have dominated political discussions in recent times. Almost 80 per cent of respondents said they had been impacted by cost-of-living pressures and 55 per cent said they had cut back on spending in the last 12 months. They cited affordable entertainment options as important to their lives. Social connection, affordable food and drinks and the chance to dine out were the top three reasons listed for attending community clubs. “It’s clear from this survey that a lot of Queenslanders have changed their habits due to these cost-of-living pressures,” Mr Egan said. “It is no wonder community clubs are preferred during these times for their affordable dining out options as
well as that opportunity for a social connection.”

About Clubs Queensland
• Clubs in Queensland are membership-based, not-for-profit organisations providing services to members and the local community.
• There are more than 1100 community clubs in Queensland with a combined 5.6 million memberships. Clubs employ more than 34,000 people, return over $549 million in community contributions and generate annual economic activity valued at more than $2.5 billion for the State’s economy.
• The surplus generated by clubs is used to deliver important and highly valued services in their surrounding communities and for visitors to their region. This support includes cash contributions, non-cash benefits, community assets and the mobilisation of volunteers.
• Clubs are important community hubs for social interaction and engagement. Members have a shared sense of values and belonging, strengthening the social fabric and promotes strong community cohesion.