19 October 2005. Give blood, smile more, plant something. These are just a few of the actions published in Change the World for Ten Bucks, a new book that was launched nationally today by Prime Minister John Howard.

A product of the global campaign We Are What We Do, Change the World for Ten Bucks offers 50 simple, everyday actions that are easy for anyone to do.

“The idea behind the book is simple,” said Jane Tewson CBE, founder of Pilotlight and catalyst for the launch of Change the World for Ten Bucks.

“Small individual actions, when performed collectively, have the power to change the world.”

It’s a philosophy that has caught the imagination of Australian business and community leaders, with more than 50,000 copies of the book ordered prior to its launch. In the same spirit, Big Issue vendors around the country will be selling the book in place of the The Big Issue from October 19 to October 23.

Commenting on the book, the Prime Minister said: “Australians have a strong tradition of volunteering. People from all walks of life donate their time, goodwill and skills to the community, whether in times of crisis or to help others through their day-to-day lives. The ‘Change the World for Ten Bucks’ project reminds us that even a seemingly small contribution can make a big difference. I would encourage all Australians to think about the simple things they might be able to do to help others and build a stronger community.”

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the number of people living alone will more than double over the next 20 years, yet community and relationships with family, friends and neighbours continues to be the primary source of life satisfaction for over 78 per cent of Australians.

Similarly, community involvement, either through volunteering or membership to local clubs and groups, is at an all time high in Australia, with over 60% of the population engaging directly in community.

Change the World for Ten Bucks has been supported by businesses and individuals that have put Action 50 into practice. Do something for nothing. More than 50 people have dedicated their time, goods, services and expertise free of charge to make Change the World for Ten Bucks a reality.

“What I love about this project is its ability to connect people to create genuine social change,” concluded Tewson.

“Over the next few days, you’ll see Big Issue vendors wearing tee shirts donated by Pacific Brands and printed by Port Phillip Prison Alexander South Youth Unit, as part of a job readiness program. If there’s one thing that Change the World for Ten Bucks demonstrates, it’s that anyone can make a difference, it’s all about knowing where to start.”

Change the World for Ten Bucks is available from Big Issue vendors and all good book stores nationally from today. It will retail at RRP
$10.00.

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