By Seafood Consumers Association
On Thursday 19 June 2025, Dr Daman Shrivastav, Deputy Chairman of the Seafood Consumers Association (SCA), will join business and community leaders at the annual Vinnies CEO Sleepout, held this year at the iconic South Melbourne Market. Dr Shrivastav’s participation highlights the urgent need for access to affordable, nutritious seafood—especially for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness—and connects the proud history of the market and seafood industry to the challenges of building sustainable, inclusive food systems for all Australians.
A Market with Deep Roots in Community and Seafood
Established in 1867, South Melbourne Market is Melbourne’s oldest continually operating market and has long been a central hub for the city’s food culture, commerce, and community life. From its earliest days, the market has been a gathering place for local producers, fishmongers, and shoppers, providing fresh seafood and produce through the night and into the early morning—reflecting the vital, often unseen night work that sustains Melbourne’s food supply.
Over the decades, the market has weathered fires, modernization, and changing consumer tastes, emerging as a leader in environmental sustainability. Today, it diverts more than two-thirds of its waste from landfill, recycles seafood by-products for aquaculture and reef restoration, and supports food rescue programs to ensure surplus food reaches those in need. These efforts underscore the market’s ongoing commitment to both environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
Seafood, Nutrition, and Social Justice
Dr Shrivastav’s involvement in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout is a call to action for greater attention to food security and nutrition among Australia’s most vulnerable. “Access to affordable, healthy seafood is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for good health,” says Dr Shrivastav. “As a community, we must ensure that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can share in the benefits of nutritious, sustainable seafood.”
Research shows that people experiencing homelessness face a high risk of malnutrition, poor diet quality, and food insecurity, with donated foods often lacking in essential nutrients like omega-3-rich seafood[4]. Improving the quality and nutritional value of food provided through shelters, soup kitchens, and community programs can have a profound impact on health outcomes and dignity for those in crisis.
The SCA, a global non-profit dedicated to promoting the interests of seafood consumers, advocates for equitable access to seafood and supports community-based fisheries that sustain local economies and healthy marine ecosystems. “Seafood should be available and affordable for all communities,” Dr Shrivastav adds. “Supporting local fishers and sustainable supply chains not only protects our oceans but also helps ensure that healthy seafood reaches those who need it most.”
Connecting Consumer Education and Community Action
The Vinnies CEO Sleepout is more than a fundraiser—it is a platform for leaders to understand the realities of homelessness and to champion solutions. Dr Shrivastav will use his participation to raise awareness of the links between nutrition, homelessness, and sustainable food systems, encouraging consumers to make informed choices and support initiatives that deliver healthy seafood to vulnerable Australians.
South Melbourne Market’s sustainability initiatives—including recycling oyster and mussel shells for reef restoration and donating surplus food—demonstrate how local food systems can contribute to both environmental and social goals. These efforts, combined with consumer education and advocacy, can help build a more just and resilient food future.
A Call to Support
Every dollar raised through the Vinnies CEO Sleepout helps St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria extend vital services—from meals and shelter to pathways out of homelessness[1]. Dr Shrivastav and the SCA urge seafood industry partners, retailers, and consumers to join them in supporting this cause and to consider the role of healthy, affordable seafood in building stronger, healthier communities.
For more information or to support Dr Daman Shrivastav’s participation in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout, visit the Vinnies CEO Sleepout website (https://www.vinnies.org.au/vic/get-involved/vinnies-ceo-sleepout).
About the Seafood Consumers Association:
The SCA is a global, non-governmental organization dedicated to advocating for safe, sustainable, and equitable seafood consumption, reconnecting consumers and producers, and supporting food security for all.
About South Melbourne Market:
Operating since 1867, South Melbourne Market is a community icon and leader in sustainable market practices, supporting local traders, environmental initiatives, and food rescue programs.
Media Contacts:
SCA Media Contact: CEO, Roy Palmer +61 492825012 or seafoodsdg@outlook.com
Vinnies CEO Sleepout in Victoria +61475 068 209 or media@svdp.org.au
