Local community group participation: Who participates and what aspects of neighbourhood matter?

This article reports on participation in local community groups from a postal survey of residents of four socio-economically contrasting suburbs in metropolitan Adelaide. A hierarchical logistic regression model was fitted to examine the socio-economic and neighbourhood-related determinants of participation in community groups within the local neighbourhood. In the final model, higher level of education, being female, longer length living in the neighbourhood, not being employed full time and having children under age 15 were significantly associated with local community group participation. Perceived social cohesion and higher ratings for local shops and recreational facilities were also associated with an increased likelihood of local community group participation. The implications for policies and initiatives that are designed to build 'social capital' within neighbourhoods are discussed.