There are many people in our community doing it tough. Figures show that more than 2.5 million Australians are living below the poverty line and more than 105,000 Australians are experiencing homelessness. Many of these people can’t afford the basics – food, education, utilities and even a place to call home. Unfortunately, our local community is not immune from these challenges.

While the Victorian Government is investing in measures to make housing more affordable and to ease costs of living for low income households, there’s always more that can be done. We can all do our bit to support those in our community who are in need of assistance, as well as to support our volunteers who provide vital services to those experiencing homelessness all over Australia.

That’s why this year I’ll be joining other community leaders on Saturday 7 July for the Diamond Valley Community Sleepout. This event aims to support Vinnies’ volunteers on the frontline who visit people in their homes to offer a gentle hand up in times of crisis.

For more information on this event, click here.