Only one Big Issue was on NSW Premier Mike Baird’s mind as he donned an iconic red hat and trademark fluoro vest to sell the street magazine in Sydney’s CBD.
Alongside experienced Big Issue seller Scott Woolfe, Mr Baird tried his hardest on Tuesday morning to stop bustling crowds in Martin Place as part of the week-long national campaign to shine a spotlight on homelessness and disadvantage.
“Selling is tough but inspiring because what I saw in young Scotty … he represents so many people on a daily basis who are determined to work,” Mr Baird said.
Telstra CEO Andy Penn kicked off the week in Sydney on Monday with Tanya Plibersek selling the magazine on Friday.
More than 60 guest sellers are taking part in the campaign, organised by the International Network of Street Papers, around the world this week.
Guest sellers want to raise awareness for the 11,000 people internationally who sell street papers, with The Big Issue aiming to put $100,000 into vendors’ pockets for the current edition.
The Big Issue CEO Steven Persson said the men and women who sold the street paper, which was launched 20 years ago, were striving to better their lives.
“They are out working harder than most. They could earn more from begging than they do by selling The Big Issue. They choose to work and that makes us proud,” he said.
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