Melbourne Student Leads the Way in Raising Funds for Car Park Sleepout
At just 11 years old, Harriet is taking action against housing inequality and homelessness.
What began as a school project on inequality turned into something bigger.
The more she researched, the more she began to see homelessness is an issue that is "far more complex and widespread than many people realise".
“It’s not just sleeping rough. It’s kids living in cars. It’s people with nowhere safe to go,” Harriet explains.
Harriet discovered Melbourne Airport’s Car Park Sleepout - an event that raises money for women, non-binary people and children experiencing homelessness due to family violence.
And she decided she had to get involved.
“I think it’s an excellent idea because it gives people an insight into what some are facing, while also raising awareness throughout Melbourne,” she said.
Harriet launched her own fundraising team, Hearts for Homes, soaring past her original goal of raising $1,000 and becoming the event’s top individual fundraiser.
Every dollar goes to specialist housing services Juno and McAuley, which provide a lifeline for those in Melbourne’s north and west who have nowhere safe to go.
“In my research I’ve learnt that this is an urgent issue that affects so many lives, and I’m honoured to help make a real difference.
“We can be the reason someone doesn’t have to sleep in their car tonight. This isn’t about charity, it’s about dignity, survival and basic human kindness," says Hattie.
Get involved
The Car Park Sleepout will take place on Thursday 16 October 2025 on Melbourne Airport’s Terminal 4 rooftop car park.
Support Hattie's Hearts for Homes team with a donation here.