Newport’s business and community leaders are being urged to step up this winter, with the 2026 Vinnies CEO Sleepout set to shine a spotlight on homelessness — an issue increasingly felt across Moreton Bay.
The annual event will take place on Thursday 18 June, with the Brisbane sleepout staged at Roma Street Parklands, where participants will spend the night outdoors to raise funds and awareness.
One night out, a much bigger problem
The Sleepout has become one of the country’s most visible fundraising efforts, bringing together CEOs, business owners and community figures willing to trade comfort for a single night to better understand what thousands of Australians face every day.
More than 122,000 people are currently experiencing homelessness nationwide, according to the latest Census — a figure that has been trending upward in recent years.
Organisers say the aim is not just to raise money, but to push the issue back into public focus.
The reality closer to home
While homelessness is often associated with capital cities, support services say demand is rising across suburban and coastal communities — including the Moreton Bay region.
That includes people who may not fit the traditional image of homelessness: families, older Australians, and those in work but unable to secure stable housing.
Local services connected to St Vincent de Paul Society National Council continue to provide frontline support, from emergency accommodation to food and financial assistance — but say pressure on services remains high.
More than two decades of fundraising
Since launching in 2006, the Vinnies CEO Sleepout has raised close to $110 million nationally, supporting thousands of people with accommodation, meals, clothing and case management.
Last year alone, more than 1,500 leaders took part, raising over $9.4 million.
This year’s event comes amid warnings that homelessness numbers could climb further, with cost-of-living pressures and housing shortages continuing to bite.
A call for Newport to get involved
For Newport’s business community, the message is simple: participation matters.
Whether it’s taking part in the sleepout or supporting those who do, organisers say the collective effort helps fund critical services — and keeps attention on an issue that is far from solved.
Registrations are open for the 18 June event, with donations also encouraged to support ongoing programs.
Published 6-May-2026
Featured Image Credit: www.ceosleepout.oirg.au
