A shared mission: Raising awareness and saving lives
At Cleanaway, we’re committed to making a sustainable future possible—not just through waste and resource management, but by supporting the people and communities in which we operate.
We’re excited to partner with Orange Sky, a not-for-profit organisation providing free laundry and shower services to those in the community (known as friends) experiencing homelessness and hardship. With thousands of volunteers across Australia, Orange Sky creates safe, supportive spaces for real conversations, connection, and care.
We're also supporting Backpack Bed for Homeless, a not-for-profit charity that provides sleeping solutions to those doing it tough - Backpack Beds and Fire Retardant Polar Fleece Sleeping Bags. These items are available nationally and assist in improving the dignity, health, warmth, and safety of rough sleepers.
Together, we’re launching an awareness campaign to highlight the dangers of sleeping in bins, and to connect those in need with safer alternatives and support services.
Risks of sleeping in a bin
Often when friends are sleeping rough, large commercial bins (known as front lift bins) located behind shopping centres, restaurants and businesses can seem like a good place for shelter. Unfortunately, this sleeping solution is high risk and can result in tragedy.
Once a bin has been emptied into the back of a collection truck, large steel blades begin compacting the waste. While these blades are essential for compressing waste to maximise collection capacities, they can be fatal if a person is inside.
Whilst front lift bins can be serviced at any time, they are typically serviced overnight or in the early hours of the morning — a time when our most vulnerable friends may be seeking shelter inside them.
While we encourage our drivers to inspect bins in areas known to be frequented by those sleeping rough, it is not feasible to inspect every bin.
Need support?
Ask Izzy connects people in need with housing, a meal, money help, family violence support, counselling and much more. It is free and anonymous, with thousands of services listed across Australia.
SecondBite feeds millions of hungry Aussies every day, for free. Utilising surplus food from growers, retailers and manufacturers, this valuable service reduces waste to landfill and provides those in need with access to food.
What we’re doing
Helping spread an important life-saving message via our national workforce and customer network, along with those channels available through Orange Sky and Backpack Bed for Homeless.
Supporting the expansion of Orange Sky’s mobile laundry and shower services across Australia.
Delivering education in partnership with Orange Sky, around bin safety for friends living rough.
Funding the purchase of Backpack Beds – beds that offer safer, weather-resistant sleeping options to friends living on the streets.
This is a Cleanaway initiative as part of an Enforceable Undertaking with Comcare.
How you can help
Whether it’s your time, a donation, or simply taking a moment to understand the challenges that over 120,000 Australians are facing, every action counts.
Volunteer
Fundraise
Whether it is doing something active, shaving your hair or asking loved ones to donate in place of gifts on a special day, every dollar helps support people experiencing homelessness and hardship.
Donate
One-off or regular donations help Orange Sky and Backpack Bed for Homeless continue their mission of supporting Aussies doing it tough.