Neighbourly Newy
Neighbourly Newy is all about building a Newcastle where people feel connected, welcomed, and proud to belong.
The program was launched on 3 May 2025 to celebrate 10 years of Newcastle as a Refugee Welcome Zone—utilising arts, sport, food, music, and community dialogue to strengthen social cohesion and intercultural connection.
What It Means to Be “Neighbourly in Newy”
The program defines neighbourliness through five simple, powerful behaviours:
- Curiosity about similarities and differences
- Saying “Hi”
- Speaking up with care
- Having fun together and feeling safe
- Sharing a sense of belonging
These principles were co‑developed by the City of Newcastle and community stakeholders to reflect the city’s values and aspirations
Why 2025 Was a Milestone Year
- 10th Anniversary of Newcastle being recognised as a Refugee Welcome Zone
- Neighbourly Newy Program Launch: Held at Newcastle Museum in May 2025, the event included a Community Chef Challenge, a one-day food and culture festival featuring Afghan, Arabic, Indian and African food makers, storytellers, and musicians.
- Multicultural Services Expo 2025: City of Newcastle was a major sponsor and co-organiser for this annual event
- Upstander Training: City of Newcastle's first-time hosting Upstander Training was delivered by Welcoming Australia/Welcoming Clubs in June 2025. The training equipped community members and sporting clubs with tools to demonstrate positive actions addressing racism.
- Come and Celebrate Jesmond! A Village in the City Celebration, Jesmond Neighbourhood Centre, 16 June 2025
- City of Newcastle Refugee Week Celebrations: Thank you CommuniTEA
- 2025 Social Inclusion: Grant Funding Boost
Neighbourly Newy Official Launch Video
View this video in multiple languages
What will you contribute? How can you be neighbourly? List your neighbourly community events and activities on My Community Diary and tag it as Neighbourly Newy.
More information or enquiries contact [email protected] or call (02) 49742880.
Do you have a great idea for 2026 and beyond that supports an inclusive community? Our grants program may be your next step!
