10 Years On — And the Gap is Growing
In our industry, we spend our days helping people secure homes, invest in property and build wealth and yet across Western Australia, more people than ever are struggling to afford a roof over their head. This year marks my 10th participation in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout. Over that time, our network has raised close to $120,000 — something I’m incredibly proud of. What’s confronting, however, is that the challenge we’re supporting has only grown.
When I first took part in the CEO Sleepout, homelessness felt like an issue affecting a smaller, more marginalised group. Today, that’s no longer the case.
Across Western Australia, we’re seeing increasing numbers of people experiencing housing stress and homelessness for the first time: families, older Australians, and individuals who, not long ago, were comfortably managing.
Rising rents, limited housing supply and broader cost-of-living pressures have created a perfect storm. For many, the gap between having a home and not having one has narrowed significantly.
Turning Support into Real Outcomes
One of the reasons I continue to support the CEO Sleepout is the direct, measurable impact it delivers locally.
Following the 2025 event, the $877,586 in funds raised across Western Australia through the St Vincent de Paul Society helped deliver:
- 2,770 people supported
- 7,269 nights of accommodation provided
- 29,077 meals delivered to those in need
These aren’t abstract numbers — they represent real people in our community who were given support at a time when they needed it most.
Supporting Young People at Risk
A significant portion of funds raised this year will support Vinnies WA’s Passages Youth Engagement Hubs in Perth and Mandurah.
These hubs provide a safe, welcoming environment for young people aged 12 to 25 who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness offering support, connection and a pathway forward. Importantly, funding will also help reinstate the Compass Outreach Program – a targeted initiative that previously delivered strong outcomes, including helping young people secure stable housing and access employment or work opportunities.
Programs like Compass are critical in breaking the cycle early, providing not just immediate support, but the tools, confidence and connections needed for long-term stability.
Supporting Those Facing Immediate Hardship
The remaining funds will continue to support Vinnies’ Emergency Assistance and Support Programs, the backbone of their grassroots work.
Every day, volunteers respond to people facing financial stress, isolation and unexpected hardship. This support goes beyond providing food, clothing and essential items, it delivers something just as important: dignity, compassion and hope.
Often, it’s these moments of connection that help people regain stability and take the first step toward rebuilding their lives.
10 Years — and a New Personal Target
Reaching nearly $120,000 raised over the past decade reflects the generosity of our clients, colleagues and broader network and I’m incredibly grateful for that support.
This year, I’d like to take that a step further. Our goal is to push beyond $150,000 in total funds raised, a milestone that would not be possible without the continued support of this community. Additonally, it is pleasing to note that Team UDIA made up of other property professionals, will be participating for the 5th year in a row.
How You Can Support
If you’ve supported this cause in previous years, thank you — it has made a real difference.
If you’re in a position to contribute again this year, or for the first time, I would genuinely appreciate your support.
Every contribution directly supports people in our community through:
- Emergency accommodation
- Meals and essential services
- Youth support and outreach programs
- Pathways toward long-term housing stability
👉 https://www.ceosleepout.org.au/fundraisers/richard-pappas/wa
This year we are delighted to have Brenton Downing participate alongside me in his 7th Sleepout. https://www.ceosleepout.org.au/fundraisers/brentondowning/wa
As a network that works in and benefits from the property sector, we are uniquely positioned to contribute to part of the solution. While the scale of the challenge is significant, so too is the impact we can have when we act collectively. Feel free to reach out to me anytime to discuss other ways you might be able to assist this great cause.
Thank you again for your ongoing support.
All the best
Richard