Interview Subjects for Melbourne Commission Flats Book

Calling All Tower Voices: Help Me Tell Melbourne’s Stories Hey Reddit, My name’s Jonny - hip hop artist, writer, and lifelong student with a heavy interest of the streets. I’m working on a coffee table style book that’s been brewing in me for years. It’s about the high-rise commission flats of Melbourne not just the buildings, but the people inside them. The stories, the perseverance, the splendor, the chaos and the resilience of those within them. These towers aren’t just concrete—they’re vertical neighborhoods. I’ve lived near them, in them, around them. I’ve seen lives unfold in them and unfortunately end in them. I’ve felt the pulse of survival and community echo through many storeys. And now, I want to document it. This book isn’t a plastic gangster tribute. It’s not a poverty-porn exposure. It’s a real look at real people. And I need your help. Who I’m Looking to Interview: If you’ve lived in or around Melbourne’s commission flats—or even just passed by them—I want to hear from you. Especially if you’re: An immigrant or refugee A drug user or dealer (past or present) A builder, cleaner, or maintenance worker A musician, artist, or creative A politician or activist A sportsperson or coach A single mum or dad A disabled person navigating the system A foster kid, youth worker, or teacher A neighbour, passer-by, or someone with a story to tell If you’ve got a voice, I need to hear it. What This Is About: I’m collecting interviews, memories, photos and reflections—raw and real. You can stay anonymous if you want. You can write me a memoir; I can send you a bunch of questions and I want you to speak freely. I’m not here to judge or edit your truth. I’m here to amplify it. How to Get Involved: Email me and I’ll follow up with a few questions if you like. I’m currently serving a sentence in a Melbourne prison with my earliest for parole set in late Feb next year. I have a laptop with a locked down internet connection, with an email account that allows myself and a friend to communicate. If this has gathered your attention, I’m sure you aware that the state government has been demolishing these buildings and plan to have them all gone by 2032, so let’s make sure your stories don’t disappear with the towers. Peace, Jonny