Justine Youl

This One's Personal

This year I'm taking part in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout.

Not because I think one night sleeping outside compares to the reality of homelessness but because too many people in our communities are doing it tough and too many are falling through the cracks.

I've experienced domestic violence, lost one brother to suicide in 2025 and, in May 2026, lost a second brother also to suicide. Those experiences have changed how I think about crisis, isolation and what happens when people don't get the support they need.

Nobody should have to face hardship, domestic violence, homelessness, mental illness or personal crisis alone.  In Melbourne recently, as part of Mental, a movement I've created to start conversations and give people hope, I did a series of vox pops speaking to people about mental health, resilience and life's challenges.  What struck me most was how many people are carrying far more than we realise, often silently. Those conversations reinforced something I believe strongly: nobody should have to struggle alone

That's why I'm supporting the Vinnies CEO Sleepout and raising funds for the incredible work they do every day, helping Australians who need support, practical assistance and hope.

If you're able to donate, thank you. Every contribution helps.

And if nothing else, let's keep having the conversations that too many people are still afraid to have.