BCCM calls for federal budget support to accelerate co-operatives and mutuals

04 February 2026

The Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals (BCCM) has released the details of their 2026–2027 Pre-Budget Submission advocating for consideration of co-operative and mutual enterprises (CMEs) in the Federal Budget.

CEO of the BCCM, Melina Morrison said the sector has been encouraged by the effective partnership with government to build the co-operative and mutual care economy over recent years.

“The care sector is just one example. There is growing recognition that co-ops and mutuals boost competition, address service gaps and provide a means for SMEs to boost their productivity and exports,” said Morrison.

“We have put forward four targeted measures to accelerate the growth of co-ops and mutuals, including immediate opportunities to increase social care delivery and domestic food and beverage processing capacity.

A sustained focus from government on providing a modern legislative and regulatory environment for the sector can boost long-term formation and growth rates, contributing to a more dynamic, diverse and inclusive Australian economy.”

The BCCM’s four budget measures

1. Extend the Care Together program.
2. National access to loans for co-ops in food and beverage processing.
3. Asset lock protection legislation.
4. Treasury corporate diversity taskforce.

Read BCCM’s pre-budget submission in full.