Homes for Homes

Homes for Homes is an independent, not-for-profit organisation established by Australia’s largest and most successful social enterprise, The Big Issue.

Made for Australian homes.

Homes for Homes is an initiative that will help raise an ongoing supply of new funding for social and affordable houses.

Homes for Homes was inspired by a smaller, developer-driven model established in the US. In 2008, an advisory group of industry leaders, including The Big Issue CEO Steven Persson, began work on developing a similar, but independent model tailored to suit the needs of the Australian market.

Homes for Homes has undergone significant concept development and business planning over the past six years, involving extensive reviews and consultations, including by government treasuries and housing departments.

The Feasibility studies and an Independent Economic Assessment measuring the outcomes of Homes for Homes have been based on conservative modelling, which still project Homes for Homes can generate billions of dollars in new funding.

Funds raised through Homes for Homes will be distributed to existing housing suppliers and managers to build social and affordable housing, based on areas of greatest housing need.

The Big Issue and Homes for Homes.

Australia’s most significant social enterprise, The Big Issue operates sustainable commercial solutions to address social issues. Since 1996, The Big Issue has successfully established a number of social enterprises and has saved the Australian community more than $100 million, providing a ‘return-on-investment’ of over $4 for every $1 spent.

The Big Issue is most well-known for providing homeless, marginalised and disadvantaged people with the opportunity to earn an income and re-engage with their community through selling The Big Issue fortnightly magazine.

Since the magazine’s launch in 1996, over 9 million copies have been sold by vendors who collectively have earned over $19 million.

With a strong delivery track record, a robust and prudent governance structure (including an independent board) and an advisory network of Australian business and industry leaders, The Big Issue is ideally placed to establish Homes for Homes.