A place to meet, connect and belong
Connect Up
Connect Up offers free and low-cost social activities for people aged 18–39 in the Belconnen region. Explore what’s on, meet new people and find new ways to feel part of your community.
Making new friends as an adult isn’t always easy. Connect Up creates relaxed and welcoming opportunities for people aged 18–39 to meet through shared interests and activities in the Belconnen region.
You might come along to have a laugh at trivia, play a board game, get creative, enjoy a book discussion or try a new activity. You can attend on your own or bring someone you know. You don’t need any special skills or experience to join in.
Regular activities give people something to look forward to and make it easier to get to know others over time. When people feel connected and have a sense of belonging, it can support their wellbeing, confidence and happiness. A friendly face at an activity may eventually become someone to share a laugh with, or call when you need a chat.
Connect Up activities are free or available for a gold coin donation. Registration is essential for each activity.
Who is Connect Up for?
Connect Up is for people who:
- are aged 18–39
- live, work, study or spend time in the Belconnen region
- would like to meet new people or feel more connected with their community
- want to enjoy relaxed social activities based on shared interests
You are welcome to attend on your own or with a friend, partner, family member or support person.
If you feel nervous about attending for the first time, contact our team before the activity. We can tell you what to expect and help make your first visit feel easier.
How Connect Up began
Connect Up began in 2024 as the Connect Up 2617 research pilot, led by the University of Canberra’s Health Research Institute.
Funded as national research, the pilot explored how regular, interest-based activities could help young adults build social connections and feel a stronger sense of belonging. Research from the pilot found that:
- more than 70% of participants increased their social connections
- 75% felt part of a like-minded group and around 90% reported an improved sense of belonging.
CRCS began delivering Connect Up in November 2025. The program has since expanded beyond the original 2617 postcode and age range and is now open to people aged 18–39 across the Belconnen region.
The program continues to be shaped by participants, volunteers and the wider community.
The Connect Up team
Our Program Coordinator – Community Development, coordinates Connect Up and works with participants, volunteers and community partners to develop activities that help people connect and belong.
Participants and volunteers are supported by the Connect Up Facilitator, who attends activities on a rotating schedule, provides a friendly point of contact, assists with program administration and works with participants and volunteers to help activities run smoothly.
You can learn more about CRCS Community Development here
Connect Up volunteers
Our volunteers are at the core of Connect Up. They welcome participants, help activities run smoothly and share their skills, interests and local knowledge.
If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer.
Help shape Connect Up
Connect Up grows from the ideas, interests, skills and experiences within our community.
We would love to know:
- How do you want to connect with others in your community?
- What activities or events would you like to participate in?
- Is there anything that would make activities easier for you to access?
- Do you have a skill, hobby or interest you could share by leading an activity?
Your idea might inspire the next Connect Up activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to register?
Yes. Registration is essential each time you attend a Connect Up activity.
Registering means we can let you know if an activity changes or is cancelled. It also helps us know who is attending in case of an emergency and keep track of participation, which supports future planning and funding.
Please register online before the activity wherever possible. If you have difficulty registering, contact our team for help.
How much do activities cost?
Most Connect Up activities are free or available for a gold coin donation. Check the individual activity listing for details.
Do I need to live in Belconnen?
Connect Up is primarily for people aged 18–39 who live, work, study or spend time in the Belconnen region but we welcome people from throughout the Canberra region. Whether you’re in Bruce, Kaleen, Charnwood, Dunlop, Holt, Scullin, Belconnen town centre, Yass, Murrumbateman or anywhere between, you’re welcome to attend.
Can I come on my own?
Absolutely. Many people attend for the first time without knowing anyone. Our volunteers will welcome you and help you settle in. You are also welcome to bring a friend or someone you know.
What if I feel nervous about attending?
Trying a new group can feel daunting. You can contact us before the activity to ask questions and find out what to expect. We will do what we can to help you feel comfortable and welcome, including meeting you before the activity starts for your first session.
Are activities inclusive and accessible?
We want Connect Up to be welcoming and accessible to people with different backgrounds, identities, experiences and abilities.
Accessibility varies between activities and venues. Check the activity listing or contact us to discuss what you need. You are welcome to attend with a support person.
Can I suggest a new activity?
Yes. Connect Up is shaped by the people who participate. Tell us what you would enjoy, whether it is a regular group, a one-off event or something we haven’t thought of yet.
Can I volunteer?
Yes. You could help welcome participants, support an existing activity or share a skill or hobby by leading an activity. Visit our Volunteer with Connect Up page to learn more.
Can I bring a friend?
Yes. Please make sure each person registers individually so we have the correct details for everyone attending.
Contact us
Want to ask a question, suggest an activity or talk to us before attending? We would love to hear from you.
Community Development team
Phone: 02 6264 0200
Email: community@crcs.com.au