Social Impact Project
Empower Students to Create Change Through a Real-World Learning Experience
The Big Issue’s Social Impact Project is now open for university participation in 2026. This unique, flexible program connects students with one of Australia’s leading social enterprises to develop real-world skills while tackling social and environmental challenges.
What is the Social Impact Project?
The Social Impact Project is a structured, supported learning experience where students design a business or project concept that creates positive social or environmental impact. Delivered in collaboration with universities, the program integrates with a range of curriculum models and academic disciplines.
Benefits for Students
Students who participate in the Social Impact Project will:
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Develop valuable employability and business skills
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Learn from The Big Issue’s experienced team through tailored guidance and feedback
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Build empathy and a deeper understanding of social issues in Australia
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Engage directly with people who have lived experience of homelessness and disadvantage
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Receive personalised mentoring from The Big Issue leadership team
This hands-on experience helps students graduate with real-world insights and the confidence to lead with purpose.
Flexible Program Delivery for Universities
The Social Impact Project is designed to work around your university’s timetable and curriculum structure. Whether for a small cohort or across an entire faculty, the program can be adapted to suit your needs.
Delivery options include:
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Work Integrated Learning (WIL)
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Industry consulting projects
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Co-curricular programs
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Cross-disciplinary intensives and hackathons
We collaborate with academic teams to co-design an implementation plan that meets your institutional goals.
Get Involved in 2026
Partnering with The Big Issue gives your students the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to social change while building essential workplace skills. The Social Impact Project complements a wide range of study areas and supports universities in delivering impactful, socially conscious learning outcomes.
Interested in bringing the Social Impact Project to your university?
Contact us today to explore how we can tailor the program to your students.
Danya Sterling – Education lead
📩 Email: dsterling@bigissue.org.au
📞 Phone: 0400 935 344
📄 Download the Program Information Pack
📅 Request a Call Back
Submit an enquiry