Staff profile: From Lived Experience to Making a Lasting Impact

When Jeremey Gunning first joined CatholicCare Victoria, he brought more than professional experience.

Jeremey brought lived experience, empathy, and an unwavering belief that everyone deserves a place to call home.

A few years earlier, Jeremey had been supported through a housing program similar to the one he now works in. “I never thought I’d work again,” he reflects. “I used to do physical jobs, but after my health changed, I didn’t think I’d get that chance.”

With the encouragement of his former support worker (now his manager), Jeremey began working as a Peer Support Worker, drawing on his own journey of homelessness and recovery to help others rebuild their lives.

Jeremey knows firsthand that housing is about much more than a roof.

“When someone moves into their new place, it’s not just about furniture or walls. It’s about dignity. We make sure people start off with a bit of pride. Even something as simple as choosing their own cups and plates matters.”

His compassion and honesty help people feel seen and understood. “I talk straight. I’ve been there, and people know that. They can tell I get it,” he says. “That makes a difference. It helps them open up and start believing change is possible.”

Jeremey is also passionate about advocacy and change. He’s helping to establish a peer-led advocacy and support group in Bendigo to give people experiencing homelessness a voice.

“We can’t just build houses, we need to build homes, safety and connection. People with lived experience can help us get that right.”

After years of uncertainty, Jeremey says he’s now in the best place of his life.

“I love my job. I love helping people. I’m proud of who I am now, and that I get to use my story to make a difference.”