JOONDALUP Mayor Albert Jacob hit the streets today to sell copies of The Big Issue.
He is one of four mayors in WA donning the trademark fluoro vest for half an hour to take part in the magazine’s annual Mayor Selling campaign from September 3 to 7.
The national campaign celebrates the role local government has in helping homeless and disadvantaged street vendors become part of the community.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOW“Local governments are vital in helping us establish pitches where The Big Issue vendors can sell the magazine and earn a life-changing income,” chief executive Steven Persson said.
“It’s fantastic that so many councils in WA are committed to supporting and empowering homeless and disadvantaged people in their community throughout the year and during this event.
“Mayor Selling gives people an opportunity to buy The Big Issue from their local leader, helping our vendors reach new readers who will keep coming back for the good content and great cause.”
Mr Jacob joined vendor David L at the corner of Davidson Terrace and Boas Avenue from 2pm.
Others taking part are Bayswater Mayor Dan Bull from 10am on Wednesday on the corner of Progress and Bishop streets in Morley, Subiaco Mayor Penny Taylor from 1pm on Thursday at Australia Post on Rokeby Road and Fremantle Mayor Brad Pettitt from 3.30pm on Thursday on the South Terrace Cappuccino Strip.
The Big Issue launched in Australia in 1996.
To date, 7000 vendors have sold more than 11 million copies of the magazine, earning over $27 million.