BREAKING News: Penrith Panthers Star Nathan Cleary Donates Entire $65.9 Million Bonus and Sponsorship Earnings to Homeless Shelter In Sydney to Help Fund 150 Units Housing with 300 Shelter Beds… “I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up, and I knew if I ever had the means, I’d give back in a meaningful way,” Nathan Cleary said in a press conference. “No one deserves to sleep on a sidewalk……”

BREAKING News: Penrith Panthers Star Nathan Cleary Donates Entire $65.9 Million Bonus and Sponsorship Earnings to Homeless Shelter In Sydney to Help Fund 150 Units Housing with 300 Shelter Beds… “I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up, and I knew if I ever had the means, I’d give back in a meaningful way,” Nathan Cleary said in a press conference. “No one deserves to sleep on a sidewalk……”

 

 

 

BREAKING News: Nathan Cleary Donates Entire $65.9 Million Bonus and Sponsorship Earnings to Combat Homelessness in Sydney

Sydney, July 25, 2025 — In an extraordinary act of compassion that has sent shockwaves beyond the sports world, Penrith Panthers star halfback Nathan Cleary has donated his entire $65.9 million in signing bonus and sponsorship earnings to fund a large-scale housing project for the homeless in Sydney.

The initiative will support the development of 150 permanent housing units and 300 emergency shelter beds, offering renewed hope to thousands of vulnerable Australians.

“I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up,” Cleary said during a heartfelt press conference. “And I knew if I ever had the means, I’d give back in a meaningful way. No one deserves to sleep on a sidewalk.”

A Gift Beyond the Game

Cleary, 27, is coming off a record-setting $389.5 million contract extension with the Panthers. Instead of spending his massive bonus on luxury or investments, he chose to redirect every cent toward helping those with nowhere to go.

This bold decision marks the largest individual athlete donation to housing relief in Australian history — and possibly in rugby league globally.

“A Legacy Beyond Rugby”

The donation will be administered through a new initiative called “The Cleary Foundation for Shelter & Dignity,” in partnership with several Sydney-based NGOs and government agencies. Construction is expected to begin later this year in areas most affected by housing shortages.

Penrith Panthers CEO Matt Cameron said the club is “in awe” of Cleary’s selfless move.

“He’s not just a legend on the field. He’s proving to be a giant off it too. This is what leadership looks like.”

Community and Fan Reaction

Social media erupted with praise following the announcement. Hashtags like #ClearyCares, #NRLHeart, and #HopeFromNathan began trending in Australia within hours.

One fan posted:

“He didn’t just raise trophies — he’s raising lives. Nathan Cleary is a hero in every sense of the word.”

Another commented:

“I hope this inspires athletes around the world. What a beautiful legacy.”

The Bigger Picture

Australia has faced a growing homelessness crisis, with tens of thousands living without safe shelter each night. Cleary’s contribution will directly tackle this by offering real, sustainable housing solutions and social support for those in need.

When asked about what drove him to make such a profound gesture, Cleary simply said:

“I was blessed with opportunity — it’s only right I use it to give someone else a second chance.”