Events

Havelock Memorial Vigil to Canberra’s Homeless

A moment to remember those we have lost.

Each year in Australia, people die from homelessness. They die on streets, in parks, in cars and in temporary shelters, in circumstances that a compassionate and wealthy country like ours should not permit. They die without a formal moment of recognition. Without names recorded. Without a community gathered to remember them.

In 2026, Havelock Housing is changing that.

The inaugural Havelock Memorial Vigil to Canberra’s Homeless is a simple, dignified gathering to mark the opening of national Homelessness Week 2026. It is a moment for our community to come together in remembrance of those we have lost to homelessness, and in solidarity with those still living rough in Canberra each night.

Havelock Housing is Canberra’s oldest and largest frontline Community Housing Provider (CHP), with more than 40 years of continuous service.

Havelock provides social, affordable and specialist disability housing to people experiencing homelessness, financial hardship, family violence and disability. For more information visit www.havelockhousing.com.au

EVENT DETAILS:
Date: Monday 3 August 2026
Arrival: 5.30pm for a 6pm start
Location: Havelock House, 85 Northbourne Avenue, Turner ACT
Duration: Approximately 60 minutes

Parking is available in the main car park on McKay Street and surrounding streets. The event will take place at the front of Havelock House.
Light refreshments will be served following the vigil. All are welcome.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE NIGHT:
The vigil has been designed to be deliberately simple and meaningful. The evening will include:
– A candle lighting ceremony
– Short addresses from Havelock CEO Kylie Maidens, Board Chair Carol Croce, ACT Shelter CEO Corinne Dobson and community voices including those with lived experience of homelessness
– A moment of collective reflection
– A minute’s silence in remembrance of those we have lost