South Australian leaders step up for homelessness at the 2026 Vinnies CEO Sleepout
Vinnies SA
Business and community leaders will gather tonight at Adelaide Zoo and sleep out on one of the longest, coldest and wettest nights of the year for the 2026 Vinnies CEO Sleepout.
Participants will swap the comforts of home for a night in the open, with a piece of cardboard and sleeping bag as a bed, to raise critical funds and awareness for South Australians experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
This year’s Sleepout has attracted strong levels of support from across a range of industries and sectors, including from its hosts Zoos SA, who are welcoming participants for the second year in a row.
During the event, participants will hear stories from people who have lived experience of homelessness and housing instability.
Premier Peter Malinauskas is among more than 130 leaders at the Zoo sleeping out in support of Vinnies SA and those doing it tough.
St Vincent de Paul Society of South Australia State President Geraldine Hawkes said the event reflects the core values of solidarity and respect that guide Vinnies SA’s daily work.
"Our purpose is always to walk alongside people during their hardest moments, ensuring they receive the assistance they need, while their dignity remains intact," Ms Hawkes said.
"This event is not about just raising funds to ensure Vinnies can continue to deliver assistance when and where it’s needed, but about building genuine connection and understanding. By listening to those who have experienced homelessness first-hand, our community leaders gain deeper insight into the systemic challenges people face, which helps us work together to offer meaningful, lasting support."
St Vincent de Paul Society of South Australia State CEO Clinton Jury said the funds are needed now more than ever, as structural housing shortages and cost of living pressures push a new wave of vulnerable South Australians into hardship.
"This event is about much more than just one night in the cold," Mr Jury said.
"With many thousands of people experiencing homelessness across Australia, we are seeing everyday South Australians, who have never needed our assistance before, seeking help just to keep a roof over their heads.
"This ongoing struggle means the generosity shown by our business leaders and the broader community through the CEO Sleepout is a big part of the funding that keeps our frontline services running when people have nowhere else to turn."
Zoos SA Chief Executive Dr Phil Ainsley said Adelaide Zoo was pleased to host the Vinnies CEO Sleepout for a second consecutive year.
”Adelaide Zoo is one of South Australia’s most recognised community spaces, and we’re proud to once again provide a venue to bring the state’s leaders together around an important community issue,” Dr Ainsley said.
“As a not for profit charity ourselves, Zoos SA understands the important role community organisations play in supporting positive outcomes for people, nature, and the places we share. We’re proud to support Vinnies and the wider community by providing a unique setting for this year’s CEO Sleepout.”
The event is aiming to raise $800,000, with funds directed into vital services across South Australia, including the Vinnies Women’s Crisis Centre, Men’s Crisis Centre, Fred’s Van food service, and tailored support for individuals and families.
Donations to the 2026 Vinnies CEO Sleepout can still be made by visiting the official event website at: South Australia | Events | Vinnies CEO Sleepout.
Contact details:
Please direct all media inquiries to: [email protected]