Norm McGillivray

Founder of Beddown

2022 QLD Australian of the Year Nominee

Norm McGillivray was shocked when he learned that more than 8,000 vulnerable people sleep on the street, on benches and under bridges every night in Australia. He wondered how he could help those sleeping rough when he had a lightbulb moment.

While parked in the car park of a local shopping centre, he noticed that the space was nearly empty. He instantly saw potential in how it could be used, especially at night when it’s typically completely vacant.

From that idea, Norm founded Beddown in 2018. He partnered with car park operator Secure Parking, providing homeless people with pop-up accommodation and complementary facilities like showers and food in underutilised car parks and spaces.

By providing a safe, secure and comfortable place to get a good night’s rest, Beddown helps restore the health and dignity of homeless people all around Australia. Norm, whose father was personally impacted by homelessness, is using kindness and understanding to significantly improve the lives and wellbeing of vulnerable people.