On the evening of Thursday 19 June 2025, 25 community leaders gathered at the historic Fanny Bay Gaol in Darwin, braving the cold to raise both awareness and funds for homelessness in the Northern Territory through the Vinnies CEO Sleepout. Together, they raised an impressive $74,000 to support Vinnies’ crucial work in providing shelter, care, and advocacy for those in need.

For many of the participants, the sleepout was more than just a fundraiser — it was a personal experience that deepened their understanding of homelessness. Rob Lutter, CEO and four-time sleepout participant, shared his reason for returning each year: “I sleep out to make a difference. It’s one night of experiencing what it’s like to be homeless. It gives you an idea so you can do something about it.” His words reflect the core purpose of the event: a chance to feel the discomfort of homelessness, even for just a few hours, and transform that experience into action.

For first-time participant Josh Arnold, the reality of the situation became clear as the night unfolded. “It makes you appreciate what you have and brings awareness to the situations people are living in,” he said. As the evening wore on, the participants shared experience created a deeper understanding of homelessness in the Territory.

The Northern Territory is home to the highest homelessness rate in Australia, with the shocking reality hitting home for many participants, including Annie Taylor from NT Shelter. “The NT has 12 times the national rate of homelessness and a really high rate of youth homelessness. The numbers are horrific, and Vinnies is doing extraordinary work,” she said.

In addition to raising critical funds, the event offered valuable opportunities for networking and sharing ideas among local leaders. The Hon Robyn Cahill OAM, Member for Port Darwin, highlighted the importance of such events in both raising awareness and funding, saying, “This event raises awareness and much-needed funds, helping us understand what it’s like for those experiencing homelessness.”

The success of the 2025 CEO Sleepout in the Northern Territory shows that through community-driven efforts and empathy, we can make a meaningful impact on those who are most vulnerable. With the funds raised, Vinnies will continue its essential work, offering a lifeline to those facing homelessness while fostering a compassionate, united response to this growing crisis. 

Registrations are now open for the 2026 CEO Sleepout. Consider joining to make a real difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness: www.ceosleepout.org.au/register-lightbox