Outdoor Media Association CEO Elizabeth McIntyre said the partnership is important and timely, given increasing homelessness, the housing crisis, and ongoing cost-of-living pressures.
“Out of Home connects with people in shared spaces where they live, work, and commute. This includes pedestrian advertising signage in cities and community hubs, standing alongside many vendors selling The Big Issue across the country.
“We are proud to support and amplify The Big Appeal across the industry’s national network of digital advertising signs. This campaign is about making The Big Issue’s impact more visible and ensuring the people they support are seen and recognised.”
The Big Issue creates opportunities for people to earn income, build confidence and reconnect with community through programs supporting vendors, women in social enterprise, Community Street Soccer players and lived-experience speakers. For every dollar invested in The Big Issue, $5.50 is returned to
the community.
Since 1996, The Big Issue has supported 8,344 vendors across the country, helping Australians living on the margins earn an income, build confidence and reconnect with community. Over that time, $41.9 million has gone directly into vendors’ pockets.
The Big Issue CEO Steven Persson said he appreciates the OMA’s support and the important role its members are playing during this milestone month.
“In our 30th year, The Big Issue wants to demonstrate the impact of a model that is more than a magazine — it is a work-led solution to homelessness and poverty.
“We’re asking the community to stand with us by buying the special 30th birthday edition or making a donation, helping create income, independence, and connection for people across Australia.
“We’re grateful for OMA’s support because many of the people we work with are too often unseen. This campaign is a powerful opportunity to put them, and their stories, front and centre.”
Supporters can get behind the 30th anniversary campaign by buying the special collector’s edition from a vendor during June. Those who wish to give more can support The Big Appeal by donating at thebigappeal.org.au
Participating OMA members include Australian Outdoor Sign Company (AOSCo), Bishopp Outdoor Advertising, Cartology, Civic Outdoor, EiMedia, Gipps Outdoor, goa Billboards, JCDecaux, JOLT Charge, Locus Outdoor, LUMOS, Motio, Multicultural Outdoor (MCO), nettlefold, OA Collective, oOh!media, Outdoor Systems, POA Billboards, QMS, S Connect - Stockland, Scentre Group Brandspace, Tayco Outdoor, THINK Outdoor, Tonic Media Network, TorchMedia, Val Morgan Outdoor (VMO), Vicinity Centres, and yStop.