All around the country, Big Issue vendors and staff have been gathering to celebrate our 25th Birthday!

On 16 June – 25 years to the day since The Big Issue began – vendors gathered for special lunches, parties and events, and took to the streets to sell the magazine with our amazing volunteers.

The Big Issue began on 16th June 1996 on the steps of Flinders St Station, and has since expanded to more than six states and territories. More than 7000 vendors since 1996 have sold more than 13 million magazines and earned more than $32 million.

Here’s a look at how vendors around the country have been celebrating the exciting milestone.

Adelaide:

Vendor Kelvin checking out the 25th birthday edition magazine at the new magazine launch, and Adelaide vendors recreating the first photos of taken of Melbourne vendors on the steps of Flinders St Station.

Sydney:

Vendors and volunteers in Sydney taking to the streets with special birthday signs.

Perth:

Perth vendors hanging out with The Body Shop and Australia Post staff, and vendor John showing off a story featuring his son Robbie.

Melbourne:

Melbourne vendors met on the steps of Flinders St Station, in the same place where vendors met 25 years ago. They even had a visit from some news crews for an interview! Photos © Mark Avellino Photography.

Canberra:

Canberra vendors and staff gathered at Woden Youth Centre for some cake and sweet treats!

Thank you to our vendors, program participants, staff, volunteers and readers for showing your support! Keep an eye out for more 25th birthday celebrations throughout the rest of 2021, including our 25 Years Big campaign. If you missed out on a copy of the 25th birthday edition, be sure to visit your local vendor as they will continue to sell the special edition all year.