Angelo Venardos

Everyone deserves a safe place to call home!

As a young Queensland Police officer and, currently, as a lawyer who practises at times within the criminal law space, I have seen on far too many occasions how easily people can suffer setbacks and fall through the cracks, and how disadvantage, poverty or mental illness can result in people ending up on the streets and without the comforts some of us take for granted.

For many years, I have wondered how I, and we as a community, might make a difference to the lives of others less fortunate than most of us. 

Teaming with others with the hope of making a difference is why, on 19 June 2025, I am taking part in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout (https://www.ceosleepout.org.au/).

I acknowledge that sleeping outdoors for one night will not go near to replicating the harsh reality that all too many Australian people face daily, but it is a chance for me to walk in someone’s shoes and to reflect on how we, as a community, and I can do better.

Homelessness is not simply someone else’s problem – it’s a problem and a challenge we all share responsibility for. 

For over a decade, supporters of Vinnies CEO Sleepout have provided essential support to tens of thousands of Australians. This support needs to continue.

If this cause resonates with you, I invite you to make a donation and, by doing so, assist in meeting the challenge - https://www.ceosleepout.org.au/sponsor?kw=angelo+venardos

I also invite you to share this message and start a conversation so that we can, as a collective, build a more compassionate and inclusive community for the future well-being of all Australians.

Thanks,

Angelo