The aim of Beddown is to find innovative solutions for Australians who are homeless or sleeping rough. We take spaces that are under-utilised, vacant or empty and transform them into accommodation for the homeless. Beddown then activates and repurposes the space at night into pop-up or short-term accommodation for the homeless. We want to help ensure those who are sleeping rough are then able to access and get into a bed at night.

Many of the homeless suffer from sleep deprivation due to the conditions of living on the streets. Sleep deprivation can lead to many physical and mental health conditions. It can also impair cognitive function and lead to alcohol or drug use.

Those who sleep rough are security conscious too, in fear of being attacked and having their belongings taken. By providing a safe, secure and comfortable place to get a good night’s rest, we help restore health, dignity and respect for our guests.

We started in a Brisbane car park, but we are now building on those foundations to use other under-utilised spaces and solutions to provide short-term accommodation. We collaborate with other organisations and services to provide holistic responses to our guests needs. 

Beddown continues to operate, under the ongoing guidance of Australian of the Year Finalist Norm McGillivray, but has now transitioned to become part of inCommunity, alongside our other two main services — inCommunity Connect and the Tenancy Skills Institute. Read more in our blog about this exciting move.

Stay tuned for updates and new projects by visiting the Beddown website or following us on social media.