The Big Issue celebrates 18 years

The edition featuring the milestone magazine hit the streets Friday 6 June, ahead of The Big Issue’s 18th anniversary on 16 June.

The fortnightly magazine was launched in Melbourne in 1996, based on the UK’s successful street paper model that provides employment to homeless and disadvantaged people. The Big Issue vendors buy the magazine for $3, and sell it on the street for $6, keeping the difference.

The Big Issue editor Alan Attwood said the publication had grown from just a handful of sellers to a national enterprise that had helped thousands of men and women get back on their feet.

“The magazine has been a great success because it gives people meaningful work and the opportunity to reconnect with the community – a model that resonates with both sellers and readers,” Mr Attwood said.

“The publication of our nine millionth magazine and our 18th anniversary give us an opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come and what we’ve achieved.”

More than 4,500 people have sold The Big Issue since 1996, earning $19 million in income through magazine sales. There are currently more than 500 vendors nationally.

The Big Issue has expanded to include other initiatives including a subscription enterprise that provides employment to vulnerable women as well as education workshops for school students.

Last year, The Big Issue also launched a digital edition of the magazine, which is sold by vendors in the form of a digital access card alongside print copies of the magazine.