With 122,000 Aussies experiencing homelessness on any given night, G.J. Gardner Homes is taking strides in a nationwide effort to raise funds and awareness for the vulnerable demographic.
Joining an initiative created by the A Home For All Foundation (AHFAF), G.J. Gardner Homes team members traded their usual home comforts. They spent one night in offices across the country in October to demonstrate solidarity and raise funds to make a real difference to those experiencing homelessness in Australia.
Chris Thornton, G.J. Gardner Homes Chief Operating Officer Australia and New Zealand, said as the number of people with no safe and secure place to call home grows, it was vital for the property industry to step up, raise awareness of the true reality and impacts of homelessness, and enact real change.
“With the statistics only rising, the ‘Office Overnight’ initiative has deeply resonated with our local franchises, with each team deeply committed to its community and giving back – not just through building quality homes, but by building strong, connected neighbourhoods,” Thornton said.
The pressures on housing in Australia have never been greater. Thornton said that as home builders, they’re uniquely placed to understand both the scale of the challenge and the importance of solutions – now is the time for the industry to step up, use its collective voice and contribute to lasting change.
“We’re encouraging our franchise network, partners and suppliers across the country to get involved to shine a brighter light on the issue and show what’s possible when our industry unites behind a common goal,” he added.
Led by the Australian property industry and backed by the REA Group, AHFAF was established in 2025 to channel the property sector’s influence and reach, drive awareness, raise funds and build long-term change for people experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity.
Christine Mikhael, AHFAF Advisory Committee Chair and LJ Hooker Chief Executive Officer, said the foundation is a valuable and important opportunity for the housing, homelessness and property sectors to come together and collectively direct funding to meaningful change.
“Each year, the foundation selects a theme to guide the distribution of funds raised, and with the number of people experiencing homelessness due to domestic and family violence more than doubling between 2021 and 2024, all funds raised in FY26 will go to charities supporting those experiencing homelessness due to family and domestic violence,” Mikhael said. “When the property industry combines its influence and knowledge, we can enact real change, and with G.J. Gardner Homes joining the fundraising efforts, I hope more industry powerhouses are inspired to follow suit.”
Read also: Community sleep-out raises record-breaking funds for homelessness
Geraldine is currently the Content Producer for Third Sector, an Akolade channel. Throughout her career, she has written for various industries and international audiences. Her love for writing extends beyond the corporate world, as she also works as a volunteer writer at her local church. Aside from writing, she is also fond of joining fun runs and watching musicals.
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