“Surface acquaintances”: parents’ experiences of social connectedness and social capital in Australian high-rise developments

Increasing numbers of families in Australian cities are raising their children in private, high-rise, housing. However, with developments often designed for singles and couples without children, there is a need to better understand the lived experiences of families in these settings. This paper draws on photo-narratives from ten parents of pre-school children aged five and under residing in newer, high-rise developments in Melbourne to explore their experiences of social connectedness and capital. Findings showed that parents' social connections were often hindered by physical and social barriers, including the design of developments and space within apartments; the transient nature of other residents; and the need to maintain a level of distance from neighbours given close proximity. However, parents felt social connectedness was enabled through organised groups and activities, and the shared experience of raising a child in the area. Based on parents’ experiences, this paper makes suggestions to improve social connectedness, foster social capital and enhance wellbeing among the increasing number of families living in high-rise developments.