Our CEO
Michael Perusco
Michael has had extensive experience working in senior leadership roles in the community sector over the past 18 years. Prior to Berry Street, he was CEO of several organisations in the housing and homelessness sector: Unison (2015 to 2018), St Vincent de Paul Society in NSW (2012 to 2015), and Sacred Heart Mission (2002 to 2011).
Michael also worked at the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet leading the social inclusion agenda, the not-for-profit reform agenda, as well as other social policy areas. He also has experience working in the commercial sector, including senior roles with KPMG and Arthur Andersen.
A large portion of Michael’s career has focused on working with people who are chronically homeless. Through this work, he has seen the devastating, life-long impact of a traumatic and dysfunctional childhood. Michael’s passion at Berry Street is helping to change the lives and trajectories of vulnerable children and young people in their crucial early years.
Michael is currently a member of the Victorian Government’s Roadmap for Reform Ministerial Advisory Group and the Aboriginal Children’s Forum. He is on the Board of the Federal Government’s Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), and the Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare. He has also been Chairperson of the Council to Homeless Persons (CHP) and Australians for Affordable Housing, as well as a member of the NSW Premier's Council on Homelessness and the Board of the NSW Council of Social Service.
In recognition of Michael’s commitment and determination to address homelessness in Victoria, he was a finalist in the 2010 Victorian Australian of the Year awards.
Michael is proud to lead Berry Street alongside an incredible, committed team of staff, carers, volunteers and supporters, in working to ensure that children, young people and families are safe, thriving and hopeful.