Mark Bauer

One night isn't a lot, but it can make a whole lot of difference

As someone who works in construction and who strives to deliver projects that meet exacting standards of quality and amenity, I lament the fact that more than 122,000 people in Australia are without a roof over their head or even a safe place to rest or live, and many of those are children under the age of 12.

I'm also aware of how this is such a growing problem and how those finding themselves in this situation is changing and becoming worse, particularly for an increasing number of young people and older women, as well as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and recent migrants, who are disproportionately affected.
 
Just over a year ago, I joined the board of Havelock Housing who provide social, affordable and community housing for low-income people and those with special needs. This opportunity has given me an insight into how critical it is that we support people to make that first step to finding a safe and secure place.

For me personally, while spending a night in the Canberra cold is nothing compared to being there night after night, I hope my night will contribute towards making the future a little brighter, safer and more comfortable for someone by raising funds that will go towards life-saving accommodation, essential support services and long-term solutions for those who need it most, while also raising awareness about this significant issue.
 
If you can provide some support to the Vinnies CEO Sleepout, I'd be so grateful. If you can't, that’s ok too and hopefully you can help someone in another way or contribute next year…. or even perhaps join me and a lot of other industry leaders from the Canberra construction community who care deeply about this issue.