The Big Issue celebrates three decades in Australia with special edition

For three decades, The Big Issue has been a familiar sight on Australian street corners, sold by vendors who are experiencing homelessness, marginalization, and disadvantage. This month marks the magazine's 30th birthday in Australia, with a special anniversary edition celebrating its enduring mission to create work opportunities and foster a sense of community.

“

I get to connect to my local community in Adelaide and a lot of people know me. It improves my own satisfaction and my own standard of living.

Vendors like David Lee, who has sold the magazine full-time for seven years, describe it as more than just a job. "It improves my own satisfaction and my own standard of living," Lee said, highlighting the personal connections he makes with his local community in Adelaide.

Michael Lech, who lives with cerebral palsy, shared how selling The Big Issue transformed his life. Previously earning minimal wages in disability services, he can now afford to live independently, pay rent, and travel. "It gives me great pleasure to have this job," Lech stated.

“

I couldn't get out of the house because I didn't have the money to do it, now I can actually get out. [It] gives me great pleasure to have this job.

The 68-page anniversary issue includes vendor memories, reflections from famous supporters, and a historical overview of the magazine's journey. Notably, two-thirds of the $30 cover price will go directly to the vendors, further supporting their livelihoods. Matthew Stedman, SA operations manager, attributed the magazine's longevity to the hard work of its vendors, especially through challenging times like the GFC and COVID-19 pandemic.

“

When you think about all those times we've been through, the GFC, the COVID times, it was hard to believe that we were going to be here, but we're still here. I think that's a testament to our vendors that work extremely hard to sell on the street, that they go out there every single day.