Our screens are brimming with commercials of happy families celebrating Christmas, but for some Australians the festive season is actually the loneliest time of year.
Mission Australia has been fielding phone calls every single day in the lead-up to Christmas, from people who have nowhere to spend it.
The demand aligns with government data that shows the frequency of social contact, both in-person and online, has been declining in Australia for the past two decades.
Many living in remote Australia can’t be with family these holidays, so celebrating with your chosen family for a “Friendsmas” can help foster a sense of connection.
By Gemma Ferguson for ABC News Northern Territory.
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