We’re excited to share a new photo exhibition at Birrarung Marr until 24 August, celebrating Melbourne’s love of footy through the stories of AFL fans who have experienced, or come close to, homelessness.

The display features two-metre-high portraits by acclaimed photographer Andrew Diprose, to spark meaningful conversations about solutions to homelessness.

The people photographed for this project remind us that homelessness can touch anyone in our community—neighbours, friends, mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, people sitting next to us in the stands — George Hatvani, Head of Systems Change and Advocacy at Launch Housing.

Homelessness can touch anyone in our community

Each of the individuals featured has a unique connection to football, and all have experienced housing insecurity. They are now safely housed, showing that with the right support, ending homelessness is possible.

Melbourne Zero is calling for all local councils to adopt the Advance to Zero approach, a method proven to reduce rough sleeping through coordinated action. Nine local government areas have already signed on.

Since 2020, nearly 300 people have been securely housed in the City of Melbourne. The City of Stonnington is on track to become Australia’s first community to achieve and sustain ‘functional zero’ rough sleeping.

Photographer Andrew Diprose says portraiture can help inspire connection and action. “Homelessness really can happen to anyone, at any time. I hope these photos help people see the strength and beauty in the participants and ask what can be done to end homelessness in our city.”

Raise the Roof is free to view until 24 August along the Greenline Project hoarding at Birrarung Marr.

Raise the Roof is brought to you by Melbourne Zero and Launch Housing, with thanks to our supporters Andrew Diprose, Pixel, The Big Issue, HoMie, Open House Melbourne, City of Melbourne and The Greenline Project.

Read the full media release.