Wednesday, 12 August 2026


Members statements

One Night Outside


Michaela SETTLE

One Night Outside

 Michaela SETTLE (Eureka – Minister for Rural and Regional Development, Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Water) (10:19): I rise today to acknowledge One Night Outside. Last week I had the privilege of joining more than 50 people who took part in One Night Outside as part of Homelessness Week. The event was a powerful reminder that homelessness is not just about the absence of a roof but about the loss of security, dignity and connection. Spending just one night outdoors cannot replicate the reality faced by people experiencing homelessness, but it does help to shine a light on the challenges that they confront every single day. I want to acknowledge Linsie from the Central Highlands Homelessness Alliance for her leadership and Juelz from Uniting for organising such an important event. I also want to thank the many frontline workers who joined the sleep-out. Their willingness to spend a night outside in Ballarat reflected the commitment they show every day of the year, supporting some of the most vulnerable members of our community. This government understands the importance of protecting those in our community, and I want to acknowledge the first ever Minister for Homelessness, the Honourable Nick Staikos, whose leadership will drive Victoria’s response to homelessness through prevention, housing and support services. To everyone who participated in One Night Outside, thank you for standing in solidarity.