The Vinnies CEO Sleepout will this year mark its 20th anniversary, bringing together CEOs and senior executives from across Australia for a night outdoors to raise critical funds and awareness for Australia’s homeless.
On Thursday, June 19, business leaders will spend a winter night outdoors to gain a small insight into the challenges of those experiencing homelessness and to help drive change.
Since its launch in 2006, the Vinnies CEO Sleepout has evolved from a grassroots initiative in Homebush into a nationwide movement, raising nearly $100 million to support vital homelessness services run by the St Vincent de Paul Society.
With thousands still struggling to find stable housing, the mission is more urgent than ever.
“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, founder of the Vinnies CEO Sleepout.
“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 a steady rise in homelessness across Australia over the past decade. Between 2016 and 2021, homelessness increased by over 5 per cent, following a 14 per cent increase between 2011 and 2016.
In New South Wales alone, 35,000 people go to bed without secure housing each night. Recent figures from the City of Sydney’s February 2025 Street Count show 345 people are sleeping rough in the inner city each night – this is a 24 per cent increase from the previous year.
“These concerning figures highlight the urgent need for action,” said Yolanda Saiz, CEO of St Vincent de Paul Society NSW.
Ms Saiz said the funds raised at the CEO Sleepout will help the charity provide emergency accommodation, food, healthcare and practical support to those experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness.
Registration details and further information can be found at ceosleepout.org.au.
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2025 Vinnies CEO Sleepout: 20 years of impact in the fight against homelessness (Vinnies NSW)
