Housing All Australians x Bridge It in The Cocoon Project
Understanding the impacts of homelessness in Australia is complex. Housing All Australians (HAA) brings clarity by viewing the issue through an economic and social lens — gathering data, building evidence, and driving action through research, advocacy, and policy development. They also renovate “pop-up shelters,” a skill set they brought to the Cocoon renovation.
“HAA excels at what truly makes projects like The Cocoon renovation possible: bringing the right people together. When Bridge It set out to renovate a mansion in St Kilda, owned by HousingFirst, there was no government money available. That’s where HAA stepped in.”
— Jenna Wilson, Partnerships and Growth Manager
“Our role with Cocoon was to oversee the [renovation] process. We identified and engaged an external project manager, while acting as the project director ourselves,” explained Mark Hayden from HAA. “It’s collaborative, it’s about problem-solving, and it’s all about contacts, connections and relationships.”
Through their leadership, HAA united a powerful network of skilled pro bono partners — all driven by the belief that every young person deserves a safe, stable home.
“In terms of what Bridge It provides, I see the wrap-around service and the collaboration as being special,” said Mark. “The tenants at Cocoon, and those who benefit from their services, are really well placed to succeed when they leave.”
Over 18 months, HAA worked closely with Bridge It and HousingFirst to bring the Cocoon vision to life — coordinating trades, securing resources, and inspiring others to jump in and help.
“It feels good to be part of the process and very rewarding,” Mark shared. “We see ourselves as facilitators. We spot opportunities, make connections, and our key role is to secure a willing workforce.”
Finding businesses ready to contribute might sound challenging, but Mark says the opposite is true.
“It’s not as difficult as you might think. The enthusiasm from the corporate world is strong — businesses want to meet social objectives and make a real impact. The benefits go both ways.”
Through partnerships like this one, Bridge It has seen what’s possible when the homelessness sector and the business world come together — when vision meets practical action.