Gregory Smith’s story is a powerful demonstration that no matter how desperate a person’s situation may seem, redemption is always possible. When Australian Story first filmed with Gregory Smith in 2018, he had just completed a PhD, a stunning achievement for a man who had spent much of his life homeless and addicted to alcohol and drugs. Five years on, his remarkable transformation continues. He works as a university lecturer and advises a number of organisations on issues around homelessness, contributions which were recognised this year when he was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia. He has also found love and lives with his new partner in Orange, NSW. In 2022, at the age of 66, he welcomed a baby son into the world.