The economic downturn over the last 12 months has seen many people – including young children – sleeping rough for the first time ever.
In Queensland, homelessness has risen by 22 per cent since 2017 (compared to 8 per cent across Australia). The latest census data found approximately 10,000 people in South East Queensland were homeless on any given night, with an increasing number of families, single and older women, and children at risk.
On Thursday, 20 June this year Griffith Business School staff and alumni will join other leaders from across the University to take part in the annual Vinnies Gold Coast CEO Sleepout, an initiative aimed at raising awareness and funds for Australians facing homelessness. The team will consist of Griffith Business School Pro Vice Chancellor, Professor Caitlin Byrne, Professor Martin Berka, Professor Alberto Posso, Professor Luis Cabrera, Krish Ravipati and Alvin Yap.
As a leader dedicated to social responsibility, Professor Byrne’s involvement in the St Vincent de Paul fundraising activity exemplifies the school’s core values. Professor Byrne is “eager to contribute to the cause that provides vital support to those in need within our communities.“
Head of the Department of Accounting, Finance and Economics, Professor Alberto Posso says he is happy to do his bit to help make a difference.
“As socially-minded researchers, we spend a lot of time using data to provide policy recommendations to end poverty in all its forms, including homelessness. It’s refreshing to be part of the team at GBS that takes our passion one step further by working with St. Vincent de Paul to raise funds and help take action against homelessness and other pressing societal problems”.
A regular participant of the Sleepout, Griffith Business School alumnus, Alvin Yap embodies the school’s deep commitment to responsible leadership. Alvin was part of the Student Leadership Program in which students are empowered to contribute meaningfully to their communities as part of their studies with student leaders actively engaged in initiatives giving back to the community. “My time at Griffith Business School taught me that leadership isn’t just about achieving personal success, but about using that success to lift others up and create a more inclusive society.”
If you would like to join Professor Byrne and the Griffith Business School team in making a positive impact on the lives of Australians experiencing homelessness, you can make a donation here.
