BCCM-EML Resilience dinner reflects on leadership and resilience across the co‑operative sector

22 June 2026

The Resilience Dinner brought together sector leaders, government representatives and partners for an evening focused on resilience, leadership and the role of co‑operatives and mutuals in supporting communities.

The event through the support of EML Group continues to recognise the strong relationship between co‑operatives, mutuals and the communities they serve, particularly in times of uncertainty and change.

The evening began with a Welcome to Country from Uncle Allen Madden, Gadigal Elder, Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council, grounding the event in community and place.

Anthony Fleetwood, Chief Executive of EML Group, welcomed guests before introducing the evening’s parliamentary address.

David Mehan MP, Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer and Member for The Entrance, spoke about the contribution of co‑operatives and mutuals to competition, participation and economic resilience in New South Wales, and the importance of policy settings that support their ongoing growth.

Melina Morrison reflected on the increasing pressures facing communities – including economic volatility, climate impacts and social challenges – and the role of co‑operatives and mutuals as institutions that support communities through these conditions, maintaining services, supporting members and reinvesting over the long term.

Throughout the evening, discussion and reflections focused on how resilience is delivered in practice across the sector. This included the ways co‑operatives and mutuals continue to support members through cost‑of‑living pressures, reinvest in communities, maintain essential services in challenging conditions and contribute to broader social and economic stability.

The keynote address from Professor Arnold Dix provided a compelling perspective on leadership under pressure, drawing on real‑world experience managing complex and high‑risk situations. His remarks focused on trust, co‑operation and decision‑making when outcomes are uncertain and stakes are high.

The evening concluded with a shared recognition of the sector’s ongoing role in building resilience – not only in response to immediate challenges, but through long‑term commitment to members, communities and collective purpose.

The image gallery from the Resilience Dinner is now available to view.