PROMINENT Camden Haven charity Aussie Battlers marked four years in its current premises at the Laurieton industrial estate this month.
From its beginnings in a small suburban garage, the organisation has grown to become a significant source of assistance for the region.
For Christmas 2025, with the assistance of generous donations and willing volunteers, Aussie Battlers produced 195 hampers for residents doing it tough.
The organisation’s secretary, Sandra Pepper, told News Of The Area, “there has been a noticeable shift in the demographics, with a shortage of affordable housing and cost of living challenges we are seeing more adult children still living at home which can put a strain on family budgets.”
“We have more than 200 clients on our books and receive on average two new referrals every week with a growing number of homeless people.”
With storage space always at a premium, the charity has welcomed the addition of a new cool room, which arrived late last year and has enabled it to store drinks and fresh food, greatly increasing its capacity.
This was made possible through donations from Laurieton United Services Club, Wauchope RSL and North Haven Bowling Club, totalling $18,000.
Aussie Battlers experiences strong demand for assistance with furniture deliveries and setting up homes, and its fundraising goal for this year is to purchase a vehicle to facilitate deliveries when required.
To kickstart this effort, the first major fundraiser for 2026 will be a silent auction and fashion parade, with planning already underway.
The community is welcome to visit Aussie Battlers, which has a large amount of information available to assist those in need.
Locals are encouraged to drop in to volunteer for a few hours or simply enjoy a coffee and a chat.
By Rachael THORPE
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