The impact of poverty on children is often profound and enduring, yet one in six Australian children currently live in poverty. It is forecast that the rate of child poverty will exceed pre-pandemic levels in 2023, having been reduced through the pandemic by the COVID Supplement payments. As we continue to be impacted by the ongoing pandemic and cost of living pressures, we are seeing rising rates of homelessness and family violence. We need early, trauma-informed, developmentally appropriate and culturally safe, sustained support for children, but also for families experiencing hardship.
StreetSmart’s first ever campaign, DineSmart, celebrates its 20th year this December. The hospitality industry led campaign has brought together hundreds of restaurants and their diners, helping StreetSmart raise over $10 million for their local homeless charities. As we encourage restaurants to 
