Business and community leaders from across Brisbane — including Fortitude Valley — are being called to take part in the 2026 Vinnies CEO Sleepout, with the city’s flagship event locked in for this winter.
The Brisbane sleepout will be held on Thursday 18 June at Roma Street Parklands, just minutes from the Valley, where participants will spend the night outdoors to raise funds and awareness for people experiencing homelessness.
One night on the ground, thousands without a home
The Sleepout has become one of Australia’s most high-profile charity events, asking leaders to swap comfort for a single night to better understand the realities of homelessness.
More than 122,000 Australians are currently without stable housing, according to the latest Census — a figure that has risen in recent years and is expected to remain under pressure.
Organisers say the goal is not just fundraising, but keeping homelessness firmly in the public conversation.
A crisis that doesn’t stop at the CBD fringe
Inner-city areas like Fortitude Valley often sit close to the frontline of the issue, where demand for support services is constant and highly visible.
But charities say the pressure extends well beyond the CBD, with more people than ever — including those in work — seeking help with essentials like food, rent and bills.
Services connected to St Vincent de Paul Society National Council are among those responding, providing emergency accommodation, meals and ongoing support as demand continues to climb.
More than $100 million raised — and counting
Since launching in 2006, the Vinnies CEO Sleepout has raised close to $110 million nationally, supporting thousands of Australians with housing, food and critical services.
In 2025 alone, more than 1,500 leaders took part, raising over $9.4 million.
This year’s event comes as housing affordability and cost-of-living pressures continue to drive more people into financial stress.
A visible show of support in the city
With Roma Street Parklands set to host the Brisbane event again, organisers say participation from inner-city business hubs like Fortitude Valley plays a key role — both in fundraising and in raising awareness where the issue is most visible.
Registrations are now open for the 18 June sleepout, with donations also encouraged to support frontline services.
Published 6-May-2026
