Set the date: The Big Issue 2026 Calendar celebrating 30th birthday on sale now

Much-loved social enterprise The Big Issue has released their 2026 Calendar, celebrating the mighty milestone of The Big Issue turning 30 next year.  

Getting the party started from 1 January, the 2026 calendar showcases festive photos of vendors all around Australia, including Dom from Brisbane, Rhys from Adelaide, Michelle from Perth, Bec from Sydney, Daniel from Canberra and MBK from Melbourne. 

Alongside the beautiful portraits of vendors, the calendar features special cartoons from resident cartoonist Andrew Weldon. In a first, the calendar also includes a digital calendar with Big Issue news and magazine release dates that can be downloaded to your phone. 

The Big Issue magazine was launched on 16 June 1996, on the steps of Flinders Street Station in Melbourne. Since then, the magazine and additional programs have expanded across the country with more than 14 million copies sold and over $40 million collectively earned by vendors experiencing homelessness, marginalisation and disadvantage. 

Amy Hetherington, The Big Issue editor, says: “We’re thrilled to be kicking off our 30th anniversary year with the 2026 Calendar. During the years we’ve grown as an organisation, providing people on the margins with more opportunities to change their lives. The calendar is one of many ways we do this, and we hope in this special year customers new and old can get behind the vendors and show their support.  

“As we head into the festive season, vendors will be selling the calendar alongside the magazine. The calendar makes for a great gift and provides a welcome income boost during what can be a tough time for people living on the margins.” 

The Big Issue 2026 Calendar is available from vendors around the country for $30. Vendors purchase the calendar for $12 and sell it for $30, earning $18 for every calendar sold. Vendors accept payment via cash, tap & go, or PayID via your banking app. Those not close to a vendor can purchase the calendar at The Big Issue Australia Shopify store. 

Vendors and program participants come to The Big Issue from a wide range of circumstances, including homelessness, long-term unemployment, intellectual and physical disability, mental illness, drug and alcohol dependency and family breakdown. Programs provide low-barrier opportunities for people to earn a meaningful income, build their confidence and connect with their community and support networks. For more information visit thebigissue.org.au. 

ENDS  

The Big Issue vendors, staff and spokespersons are available for interview. To confirm media opportunities contact:  

Maree Agapitos – Media and Communications Lead  

magapitos@bigissue.org.au | (03) 9663 4533 | 0418 124 190 


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