Abstract
Loneliness and social isolation are growing concerns globally due to their impacts on health and wellbeing. One in four Australians were lonely prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. With the onset of COVID-19 restrictions, including social distancing requirements and self isolation, it is more likely Australians previously experiencing loneliness, will experience poor physical and mental health compared to connected Australians with strong social networks. By implementing screening activities and early interventions designed to mitigate social isolation and loneliness, the Federal Government and the Queensland Government could reduce spending in the health sector to combat issues such as mental health, coronary heart disease, stroke and dementia which are directly linked to loneliness.