Rising cost of living: what it means for the most vulnerable in our community

Please join us on Tuesday 18 March 6.30-8.30pm for a special event and crucial discussion to launch the 2025 IMPACT100 Sydney North Granting Year.

The cost of living crisis disproportionally impacts the most vulnerable in our society, including children, young people and families at risk, people IMPACT100 Sydney North exists to support. We are thrilled to announce Cassandra Goldie, CEO of the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS), someone at the forefront of advocating for people affected by poverty, disadvantage and inequality, will open our 2025 granting year.

Cassandra will be joined by Zachariah Matysek, Acting CEO National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Housing Association (NATIHA) which champions community-controlled housing solutions to ensure every First Nations individual and family has access to safe, secure and culturally fitting housing. IMPACT100 Sydney North's Andrew Everingham will host the panel discussion.

About ACOSS

ACOSS is the national advocate supporting people affected by poverty, disadvantage and inequality, and the peak council for community services nationally. Key campaigns include Raise the Rate for Good to reduce poverty and inequality in Australia and Fair, Fast and Inclusive Climate Action to ensure the transition to net zero emissions improves the lives of people facing disadvantage.

About Cassandra Goldie AO

Cassandra Goldie AO is CEO of ACOSS and Adjunct Professor with UNSW Sydney. With public policy expertise in economic, social and environmental issues, civil society, social justice and human rights, Cassandra has represented the interests of people who are disadvantaged, and civil society generally, in major national and international processes as well as in grassroots communities. Prior to joining ACOSS, Cassandra held senior roles in both the not-for-profit and public sectors, including with the Australian Human Rights Commission, Darwin Community Legal Service and Senior Executive with Legal Aid in Western Australia.

Cassandra was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2023 for distinguished services to social justice through leadership and advocacy, promoting the rights of marginalised and disadvantaged people.

About NATSIHA

NATSIHA is committed to reshaping the housing landscape for the betterment of First Nations peoples. As the national peak body, they champion community-controlled housing solutions. By empowering First Nations communities to shape their own housing solutions, NATSIHA is not only addressing the housing emergency but also contributing to closing the gap – a significant step towards achieving equity and improved outcomes for First Nations people in all aspects of life.

About Zachariah Matysek

Zachariah Matyseck Matyseck is a proud Meriam man from the Meuram and Erub Samsep tribes of Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait). In this role, he leads initiatives focused on addressing critical housing challenges faced by Indigenous communities in Australia. His work emphasises self-determination, truth-telling, and agreement-making to improve outcomes in areas such as health, education, and housing. Zachariah is also a Visiting Fellow and a passionate advocate for human rights, particularly in empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through sustainable housing solutions and policy reform. He brings over a decade of senior leadership experience in government and community sectors.