As the winter chill begins to settle over the Upper North Shore, many of us are retreating to the comfort of heated homes and warm beds. Yet, for more than 122,000 Australians, a secure place to call home remains out of reach. From infants to seniors, homelessness is a national crisis that has grown by over 5 per cent in recent years – and our local community is not immune to these statistics.
On Thursday, 18 June, business and community leaders across the nation will once again swap their boardrooms for sleeping bags for the annual Vinnies CEO Sleepout. This vital initiative has raised nearly $110 million since 2006, providing a lifeline of accommodation, food, and case management for those at risk.
However, the St Vincent de Paul Society notes that we need collective action. The Sleepout is an opportunity for those with influence to advocate for the fundamental human right of secure housing. By spending a night in the cold – be it in a car park, a stadium, or a local backyard.
Are you sleeping out for change?
At The Post, we want to highlight the local heroes in the Hornsby and Ku-ring-gai electorates who are stepping up for this cause. Whether you are a CEO of a major local firm, a small business owner, or a community leader organizing your own local sleepout, we want to hear from you.
Sharing your story helps inspire others, drives local donations, and shows that the Upper North Shore stands in solidarity with those experiencing homelessness.
If you are participating in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout, please let us know, email: Editor@hkpost.com.au
At a Glance: Sleeping Out for Change
- The annual Vinnies CEO Sleepout takes place on Thursday, 18 June 2026.
- The Crisis: Over 122,000 Australians are currently experiencing homelessness, a figure that has grown by 5% recently.
- Impact: The initiative has raised $110 million since 2006 for food, housing, and emergency support.
- The Post is profiling local participants from Hornsby and Ku-ring-gai. Contact us at Editor@hkpost.com.au to share your journey.