As the Vinnies CEO Sleepout marks its 20th year, it will unite CEOs and senior executives for a night outdoors to raise funds and awareness for Australia’s homelessness crisis.
On 19 June, business leaders will spend a night outdoors to take a glimpse into the challenges of those experiencing homelessness and help drive change. They will spend the night at the White Bay Cruise Terminal in Sydney, as well as at events in Newcastle and Wollongong.
Since its inception in 2006, the Vinnies CEO Sleepout has evolved from a grassroots initiative in Homebush into a nationwide movement, raising around $100 million to support vital homelessness services run by the St Vincent de Paul Society.
“Reaching the 20-year milestone demonstrates the business community’s commitment to the cause but is also a stark reminder of the challenges we still face,” said Bernard Fehon OAM, Vinnies CEO Sleepout founder. “What started as a local effort has grown into a nationwide tradition and a powerful reminder that everyone deserves a home and a place to feel safe. We’re determined to continue working toward our vision of real change and ending homelessness.”
The latest Census figures highlight the worsening homelessness across Australia over the past decade, which rose by over 5% between 2016 and 2021 and by 14% between 2011 and 2016.
In NSW alone, 35,000 people sleep without secure housing each night. Recent figures from the City of Sydney’s February 2025 Street Count show 345 people sleep rough in the inner city each night, 24% higher than the 2024 figures.
“These concerning figures highlight the urgent need for action,” said Yolanda Saiz, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW CEO. “With homelessness and rough sleeping on the rise and the housing crisis worsening across NSW, immediate assistance is critical.”
NSW also faces challenges in providing adequate housing assistance. Vinnies NSW reported that while its housing and homelessness services have assisted 6,746 individuals and families in 2024/25, 3,094 people remained unassisted.
“The Vinnies CEO Sleepout remains our most significant fundraising event, and this year in New South Wales we are aiming to raise $3 million. The much-needed funds will allow us to provide emergency accommodation, food, healthcare and practical support to those experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness,” said Saiz.
As the 2025 Vinnies CEO Sleepout nears, business and community leaders are encouraged to join the fight against homelessness by signing up, fundraising and taking a stand. More information and registration details can be found on the event website.
Read also: Over $10,000 to combat youth 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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