A winter health boost for The Big Issue vendors
The Bupa Foundation is helping The Big Issue vendors stay healthy this winter, with Bupa nurses providing free flu vaccinations and vouchers as infection rates rise early.
The initiative is part of a longstanding partnership between the Bupa Foundation and The Big Issue, established in 2018 to address the barriers many people experiencing homelessness and disadvantage face in accessing healthcare, including vaccinations. This year’s flu vaccination program has been rolled out across Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide while Western Australia and Queensland have free government funded programs[1].
Bupa Asia Pacific Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer Roger Sharp said the program reflects Bupa’s commitment to improving access to preventative healthcare for people facing disadvantage.
“Through the Bupa Foundation, we’re proud to support vendors with access to flu vaccinations that can help protect against infection and support their wellbeing as the colder months approach.”
“The Big Issue plays a vital role in creating pathways out of hardship by helping people rebuild their independence through meaningful work. Providing free and easy access to flu vaccinations through visits from our nurses along with vouchers is just one small way we can lend a hand,” Mr Sharp said.
The Big Issue plays a vital role in creating pathways out of hardship by helping people rebuild their independence through meaningful work. Providing free and easy access to flu vaccinations through visits from our nurses along with vouchers is just one small way we can lend a hand.
Government data suggests flu causes about 3,500 deaths 18,000 hospitalisations in Australia with those living with disadvantage having a higher risk
CEO of The Big Issue Steven Persson said the program remains an important way to keep vendors safe.
“As we enter flu season, it’s important that every member of our community has access to vaccinations. For our community of Big Issue vendors, staying safe is a priority, especially as they’re out in the community every day and, during winter, often out in the cold. Supporting vendors to stay healthy helps them continue their work, maintain their independence and keep showing up for their customers and communities.
“As we celebrate our 30th anniversary in June this year, we’re grateful for the ongoing partnerships and initiatives like this from Bupa, which have supported vendors’ health and wellbeing for many years,” Mr Persson said.
As we celebrate our 30th anniversary in June this year, we’re grateful for the ongoing partnerships and initiatives like this from Bupa, which have supported vendors’ health and wellbeing for many years.
Since 1996, The Big Issue has supported vendors across Australia to earn a meaningful income, build confidence and strengthen connections with their communities, with almost $42 million earned by vendors to date.
Bupa is encouraging Australians to support The Big Issue by purchasing a copy of the magazine, and to book their own flu vaccination with their local GP or pharmacy to help protect themselves and their loved ones this winter. Bupa has announced 40,000 free flu shots for its health insurance customers and eligible health services customers and patients at Bupa Medical Centres.
For more information about The Big Issue, visit here.
For more information about the Bupa Foundation, visit here.
[1] Influenza immunisation and Provider information for the 2026 Free Flu Vaccination Program | Queensland Health
