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The Australian media landscape is a valuable platform for spreading the varied work we do as an organisation and pushing our advocacy agenda.

Across traditional media platforms such as television, radio, and print, along with our social media presence on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn, we have been able to raise awareness of pressing social issues, highlight our fundraising campaigns and raise the voices of people we assist.

Over the last year, we received in excess of 250 mentions per month across NSW print, TV, radio, and online news media. Our social media presence continued to grow, allowing us to share our good works with new audiences. Our online reach includes 13,000 Facebook, 7,500 Instagram, 2,800 Twitter and 5,500 LinkedIn followers.

The Vinnies Bushfire Appeal raised more than $25.2 million nationally to support households impacted by the devastating Black Summer bushfires. The Society’s Chief Executive Officer, Jack de Groot promoted the appeal during several high-profile media appearances including The Today Show and 2GB breakfast.

As COVID-19 affected people’s livelihoods and wellbeing, we advocated for a permanent increase to the JobSeeker allowance as well as government support for charities, ensuring we could continue to offer assistance through a time of great need.

In response to the challenges created by COVID-19, the annual Vinnies CEO Sleepout went ahead for its 15th year in an adapted format. Media coverage through outlets including Sky News and 2GB was instrumental in raising $5.7 million nationally – including $2.2 million in NSW – to support the Society’s homelessness services.

The people we assist are at the heart of our work. Throughout the past year we amplified the voices and stories of several people helped by our Vinnies Services team. To name a few: the Sydney Morning Herald’s Good Weekend magazine profiled our friend Maria for a feature on homelessness among women over 55; the ABC’s Australian Story shared the remarkable story of Dr Gregory Smith, an ambassador for our Fred’s Place homelessness service in Tweed Heads; and ABC News spoke to Cian, a young man who gained support from our Matthew Talbot Hostel during COVID-19.

The St Vincent de Paul Society NSW is the strong, impactful organisation it is today thanks to the contribution of members and volunteers. Their voluntary service makes an enormous impact on the lives of people in need. We love the opportunity to put the spotlight on incredible members like Tony Cranney, who was this year named The Today Show’s Have-a-Go Hero.