Street Socceroos set sights for the Homeless World Cup
“We’re so grateful for the opportunity to participate. It means a lot to us.”
— Rachel, Street Socceroos player
The Street Socceroos, a soccer team put together by social enterprise The Big Issue, are getting ready to represent Australia in the upcoming Homeless World Cup next week from 23-30 August.
Beginning in 2003, the Homeless World Cup uses football to support and inspire people experiencing homelessness to change their lives, and to challenge the perceptions and attitudes towards people who are experiencing homelessness.
This year the team is heading to Oslo, Norway to compete in the international tournament, joining 500 players from 48 nations.
The team of eight was selected from more than 400 participants from across The Big Issue’s Community Street Soccer Program. The program supports people in 30 locations nationally who have experienced homelessness, disadvantage and marginalisation to get active and reconnect with their community through the power of sport.
Learn more: Street Soccer and where to play
Though the team is yet to leave, they’ve already begun their journey; visiting Canberra where they were officially presented with their jerseys by Aussie sporting legends at the Parliamentary Sports Club Meeting at the National Press Club. Surrounded by Olympians, Paralympians and national sporting icons, the Street Socceroos received their uniforms and were celebrated for their efforts on and off the pitch.
“This journey has already been life changing,” said National Street Soccer Coach George Halkias. “The players come from different backgrounds, and many had never met before. But over just a few days of training and connection, they began to trust one another and believe in themselves. That is what this program is all about. Helping people build confidence, community and a sense of purpose.”
Show your support! ⚽ 🎉
- All Street Socceroos games will be livestreamed on The Big Issue’s Facebook and Homeless World Cup YouTube.
- Share a message of support on our social pages or with the hashtags #MoreThanAGame #Oslo2025HomelessWorldCup
- The team is also featured in the latest edition of The Big Issue magazine, available from your local vendor or by subscription.
Best of luck to the Street Socceroos, you’ve already made us proud! We have no doubt that you’ll represent Australia well and have a fantastic journey.
Ahead of the tournament starting next week, check out the 2024 Street Socceroos in Seoul, South Korea below.