A community forum next month will amplify the voices of women who have experienced homelessness, inviting locals to listen and better understand the issue in Geelong.
The event, on Wednesday 10 June, is part of the Walk In Her Shoes campaign and touring exhibition, which shines a light on the often-hidden realities of women facing housing instability.
The forum – presented by the Council to Homeless Persons – will feature personal stories from women of different ages who have been affected by homelessness.
Among the speakers is Geelong’s Jessie Moore, 21, who will share their experience of homelessness and sleeping rough as part of a panel discussion.
Jessie, who now lives in transitional housing in Geelong West, said it was critical for people with lived experience to be heard.
“It gives people an education on what homelessness actually looks like from someone who has experienced it,” they said.
“People sometimes stereotype homelessness, but anyone can be homeless at any time. One thing could go wrong and you could lose everything.”
Jessie first experienced homelessness at 17, spending six months sleeping on a friend’s floor.
They later spent time on the streets in 2024 before being referred to community service organisation Meli, which supports young people through challenging times.
“I want people to understand not just what happened, but how it affected me – my mental health, my physical health, and the way it disrupted my life,” Jessie said. “Just to give them a feel of what people on the streets actually go through.”
The forum comes as demand for homelessness and housing support continues to grow across the region.
More than 1,800 people experienced homelessness in Geelong in 2024-25, while more than 6,500 people across the broader Barwon region received support to prevent or address homelessness.
The panel will also include local MPs Christine Couzens and Sarah Mansfield, along with representatives from Meli and the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative.
Jo Baillon, Manager Housing Services at Meli, said the forum was an important opportunity to hear directly from women whose experiences are often hidden or misunderstood.
“Homelessness is not a distant issue. It’s happening here in our community, and more women are at risk than many people realise,” she said.
“Like the stories shared through Walk In Her Shoes, behind every number is a real person.
“It’s a reminder that the right support can make all the difference in helping people feel safe and rebuild their lives.”
The forum will run from 6.30pm to 8.30pm on Wednesday, 10 June, at Wurriki Nyal Civic Precinct in Geelong.
Registrations are available via Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/walk-in-her-shoes-exhibition-and-forum-geelong-tickets-1987800077542
Photo: Geelong’s Jessie Moore will share their experiences of homelessness at the forum.
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