Moving to a new city is a pretty exciting adventure, but it can also be a bit daunting, especially when it comes to making new friends.
As an expat who moved to Australia by myself, I’ve been through the highs and lows of trying to build a social circle from scratch. So, I figured I’d write all of my tried-and-tested tips and advice into this blog post on how to make friends in Sydney.
Luckily, Sydney is a multicultural city with a tonne of working holidaymakers, expats, international students, and Aussies who moved here from other parts of Australia, so there are plenty of other people in the same boat as you!
Here are some of the ways to meet friends in Sydney that have worked for me and other people I know, so that you can hopefully find your friend group quickly and start feeling more settled in this wonderful city!
How to Make Friends in Sydney
Making friends in Sydney is a lot easier than you might think, thanks to its friendly, welcoming vibe. With people from all over the world calling this place home, it’s a melting pot of cultures where forming friendships feels pretty natural. Here’s what you can do:
Embrace the Local Culture
One of the best ways to connect with people here is to jump right into Sydney’s local culture. Aussies are known for being laid-back and approachable, so get involved!
Whether it’s joining a sports club, hitting up community events, or picking up a new hobby, there are endless ways to meet people. Plus, it’s a great way to get a feel for the Aussie way of life.
I know it can feel pretty daunting to turn up to a club as a newbie, but just think: you only have to be the newbie one time, and once you have that first attendance out of the way you’ll feel like part of the team in no time.
Attend Meetup Events
Meetup.com is a treasure trove for finding social groups and events that match your interests. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, book clubs, or even learning a new language, there’s a Meetup group in Sydney for pretty much everything.
Not only do these events let you dive into your passions, but you’ll also meet people who are into the same things as you. There’s also Bumble BFF, one of the best apps to make new friends which I’ve heard works well.
One meet up events I have done is the Lost & Found in Sydney events. Rachel, the founder, is an Irish expat and regularly organises meetups and events for everyone. It’s an incredible community to be a part of and it would be amazing to see you there someday!
To hear more about the Lost & Found in Sydney community, listen to the podcast episode which featured Rachel.
Utilise Social Media and Expat Forums
Social media is a goldmine for meeting new people. Facebook groups and online forums dedicated to expats in Sydney are your go-to for everything from advice on navigating the city to finding fellow internationals to hang out with. You’ll find expat communities hosting meetups, sharing tips, and generally looking to connect.
Here are some of my favourites (click on the names below to explore more):
- Poms in Sydney
- Lost and Found in Sydney
- Sydney Working Holiday Girls
- Sydney Social Group
- Sydney Social Circle
- Sydney Backpacker Parties
- How’s the Head – Men’s group
- Irish around Sydney
- Croissant Run Club
- Bondi Beach Babes
- Somatic Ice Baths Sydney
- Connection Hub – Men’s group
- Gals who Travel– Women’s group
- She Runs Club
- Rounders round Sydney– Girls sporting group.
- Friends on Purpose Group
- When no ones watching– Men’s Mental Health Group
- When no ones watching (Coogee)
- Double Bay Divas- Womens group for those near Double Bay or surrounds
- Expats Elevate- group for female expats
Don’t be shy – jump into the conversations, ask questions, and join in on events. These platforms are an awesome way to expand your social circle, especially when you’re new to the city. Plus, who doesn’t love the convenience of making friends from the comfort of their phone?
Many groups also encourage you to post an intro to yourself when you join, including a few photos and a bit about your background and hobbies, so that other members with similar interests can reach out to you. It can feel a bit uncomfortable, I know, but it’s worth it.
Explore Local Neighbourhoods and Cafes
Sydney is a patchwork of cool neighbourhoods, each with their own personality, so why not make a habit of exploring them? Wander through different areas, pop into local cafes, and get to know the regulars. Sydney’s café culture is huge, and you’d be surprised how easy it is to strike up a conversation with someone over a flat white.
Sure, this isn’t as effective a friend-making strategy as joining groups or going to socials specifically designed to make friends, but you’ve got to be out and about to meet people, right?
Plus, it’s a far more effective strategy than staying at home, and will also help you to combat homesickness and feel more settled in your new area quicker.
Enrol in Classes or Workshops
Want to learn something new and meet people? Enrolling in classes or workshops is a perfect way to do both. Whether you’re into cooking, dancing, painting, or yoga, these group settings are a great way to bond with others who share your interests. There’s nothing like connecting with people over a shared experience – and you’ll pick up a new skill in the process!
Sydney’s got plenty of options, from creative workshops (paint and sip is super popular, and a good way to get chatting to new people) to fitness classes, so it’s worth looking around for something that piques your interest.
And no, you really don’t have to be a pro to join a club – there are plenty of beginner options like Boobs on the Run or Urban Rec Basketball that’ll have you started in no time.
Who knows? Your next best friend could be just a class away.
Volunteer
Volunteering is a fantastic way to give back while meeting like-minded people, and it’s one of the top ways to meet friends in Sydney without drinking or partying.
Whether you’re passionate about environmental conservation or charity work, Sydney has plenty of opportunities to get involved.
Not only will you make a positive impact, but you’ll also connect with others who share your values and passions. It’s a win-win – you’re helping out and making new friends in Sydney along the way.
Plus, there’s something special about bonding over a shared cause.
Stay Open-Minded and Proactive
I can’t sugarcoat it – making friends in a new city takes time, so it’s important to stay open-minded and proactive. If it was easy, nobody would be reading this guide and I wouldn’t have had to write it!
The key is to be ready to step out of your comfort zone, whether that means starting a conversation with someone new, attending a social event solo, or joining a new group. Remember that everyone’s in the same boat, looking to connect, so don’t be afraid to make the first move.
The more you put yourself out there, the easier it becomes – promise.
Where to Make Friends Sydney
Making friends doesn’t happen overnight, so don’t get discouraged if it takes a little time. Be patient, stay open to new experiences, and take advantage of the opportunities that come your way. Once you’ve met someone cool, be sure to plan a follow-up meeting so that the budding friendship doesn’t fizzle.
With all the social settings and activities available in Sydney, though, you’re bound to find your group with a little effort and persistence.
Here are a few spots to get started:
Local Pubs and Bars
Sydney’s pub culture is a great way to meet people. Head to areas like The Rocks, Surry Hills, or Newtown, where the atmosphere is always lively, and strike up a conversation with locals or fellow expats if you’re brave enough!
If you need a few suggestions, I’ve got some rooftop bar recommendations to get you started. Even if you don’t end up making any new friends, you’ll have enjoyed yourself over a drink with epic views of the city, so it’s a no-lose situation!
Maybe, like me, you’re not really the type to just start chatting to random strangers in a bar. Fair enough. Luckily, though, there are plenty of backpacker bars in Sydney where that’s pretty much expected and totally normal.
Social Sports Clubs
Sports are huge in Australia, and joining a local sports club is a brilliant way to meet people and stay active. Whether you’re into netball, rugby, cricket, or have always fancied giving Aussie Rules footy a whirl, there are plenty of clubs and leagues in Sydney catering to all skill levels.
You’ll not only get in some exercise but also enjoy that camaraderie that comes with being part of a team. Plus, with clubs, it’s usually the same group of people every week, which means you’ll be able to develop friendships naturally over time without feeling like you’re “forcing” it.
Language Exchange Groups
If you’re keen to learn a new language or sharpen your skills, joining a language exchange group is a fun way to meet people from different cultures.
These groups regularly organise meetups where you can practise speaking different languages, share cultural insights, and build friendships based on common interests. It’s a great way to connect with people (most of whom will also be new to Sydney) while broadening your horizons.
e speaking different languages, share cultural insights, and build friendships based on mutual language interests.
Networking Events and Professional Associations
Sydney’s business scene is buzzing with opportunities to expand your network. Whether you’re looking to boost your career or meet people in your field, there are countless networking events and industry-specific associations to check out. The best way to find these is with a quick search on Google or LinkedIn.
Not only will you grow your professional connections and learn how to better navigate the Aussie job market, but you’ll also meet like-minded people who share your career goals and aspirations. It’s a great way to make friends in Sydney and build a solid network at the same time – especially if you’re a bit too old to be hitting the boozy backpacker pub crawls!
Cultural Festivals and Events
Sydney’s multicultural vibe is one of its best features, and the city knows how to celebrate it! From the lively Chinese New Year festivities to the Sydney Fringe festival, there’s always something going on, and this is the prime opportunity to get talking to others and make new friends.
These events are a fantastic way to immerse yourself in different cultures and meet people from all walks of life.
Keep an eye on the city’s event calendar, and make it a point to get involved – whether you’re watching a parade, trying new foods, or enjoying live music, there’s always something fun to dive into. Again, even if you come away having not chatted to a single other person, at least you got yourself out of the house to try something new – that deserves a pat on the back!
University Clubs and Societies
If you’re studying at uni in Australia or live near a university, joining campus clubs and societies is a brilliant way to meet people.
Sydney’s universities have an endless list of student organisations covering everything from sports and arts to music and cultural groups. Engaging in these clubs not only connects you with fellow students but also gives you the chance to pursue your passions and make friends along the way.
At Work
Don’t underestimate the power of Aussie workplace friendships! If you’re working in Sydney, your job can be a surprisingly great place to meet people. Strike up conversations with your colleagues, join any social events your company organises, or even suggest grabbing lunch or coffee together.
Building friendships at work can make your job more enjoyable and create lasting connections.
It’s Time to Get Out There!
Making friends in Sydney – or any new city – can feel like a challenge at first, but I promise it’s possible, and, with the right approach, it’s actually an exciting opportunity to create your own friendship group and surround yourself with like-minded people.
Embrace the local culture, get involved in online communities, explore the city’s neighbourhoods, and engage in activities that spark your interest. By following these tips, you’ll soon find yourself surrounded by a diverse and fun group of friends, making your expat experience in Sydney unforgettable.
Once you’ve found your crew, don’t forget to check out my list of fun things to do with friends in Sydney – there’s always something happening in this amazing city!
Moving to Perth? Check out my recommended blog on making friends in Perth.
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