Kate Austin

Kate Austin, a victim of domestic violence, left home aged 16 with only the clothes on her back after nearly losing her life. She has since turned every hurdle she's endured into an opportunity. For people affected by hygiene poverty, she has created significant impact and change.

Kate founded Pinchapoo in 2009. It began with the concept of donating hotel toiletries to people living in situations like she had for two years sleeping rough.

Pinchapoo has grown into the biggest national not-for-profit supplier of personal hygiene essentials. It works with over 1500 leading organisations, community groups and government institutions. Pinchapoo has become a reliable source of customised, culturally appropriate and gender inclusive personal hygiene solutions for men, women and children.

Kate leads her team in advocating access to hygiene products for both men and women equally.

Kate has also managed to create significant environmental impact. She has worked with the selfcare industry to redirect more than 1000 ton of landfill destined 'waste' products into the hands of disadvantaged Australians.