St Vincent’s homelessness advocate Erin Longbottom named Sydney Unsung Hero

21 Sep 2026

Congratulations to Erin Longbottom, our National Director of Homelessness, on being named winner of the Committee for Sydney's 2026 Unsung Hero Award.

The award recognises individuals whose work – carried out without public recognition – makes Sydney a better place. Erin's selection places her among a small group of people whose leadership is helping shape a more inclusive, compassionate and equitable city

The recognition is particularly significant given the role of the Committee for Sydney. As Greater Sydney's leading urban policy think tank and advocacy organisation, the Committee convenes leaders from across government, business, academia and the community sector to tackle some of the city's biggest challenges. Its annual Sydney awards shine a spotlight on people and projects creating meaningful change for the city’s future.

Throughout her career, Erin has been a tireless advocate for people experiencing homelessness. As a nurse – and then Nurse Unit Manager – at St Vincent's Hospital Sydney’s Homeless Health Service for more than a decade, Erin worked alongside her colleagues responding to the profound impact that homelessness has on health and wellbeing. One of the hallmarks of Erin’s advocacy over many years has been calling for more equitable support for homeless non-residents who are often denied access to emergency accommodation or social housing, income support, and in many cases, healthcare, because of their visa status.

Today, as St Vincent's inaugural National Director of Homelessness, Erin leads our efforts to strengthen health's contribution to preventing and ending homelessness across Australia.

“Homelessness is a health issue,” said Erin.

“Having a safe, stable home makes good health possible. Healthcare can help people find and keep housing.

“We know how to end homelessness: long-term investment in housing plus access to the ongoing support people need – including healthcare.

“I’m proud to accept this award on behalf of my colleagues who work so tirelessly in our homeless health services across our organisation,” said Erin.

Pictured: Erin received the Unsung Hero Award at the Committee for Sydney Awards night on Thursday 17 September 2026.