An Introduction to Co-operatives and Mutuals

This unique program has been developed to provide foundational information about co-operatives and mutuals for your employees.

Developed especially as an easy and affordable induction training for new employees, this industry developed course is relevant for staff at all levels to ensure a consistent level of knowledge across the co-operative and mutual enterprise (CME) sector.

It is designed to ensure CME employers can provide an introductory overview of the business model and the CME sector to new and existing staff.

The key objective is to educate and to inspire people working in the sector to understand more about the unique role and contribution of co-operatives and mutuals to help them in their role in their CME, whether frontline staff, management or directors. It will help build a meaningful connection between the employee and the wider CME sector, as well strengthening the relationship with their individual employer.

This is achieved through a deeper understanding of the fundamental principles which underpin CMEs as businesses that put purpose, people, and communities at the heart of the enterprise.

It is delivered in a live and interactive webinar structure with a unique live Q&A with a sector leader. Knowledge is delivered in a fun and accessible format.

By undertaking the course, your employees will learn:

1. About the co-operative and mutual business model and how it is different to other kinds of business structures.
2. About the purpose of co-ops and mutuals and how they are structured to benefit members.
3. Some real examples of co-ops and mutuals through case studies.
4. How co-ops and mutuals and started here and around the world, and,
5. Why working for a co-op or mutual matters – in a live conversation with a senior co-op or mutual business leader.

Learning outcomes

Upon completing the course attendees will be able to demonstrate their understanding of:

• The size, scale and impact of the co-op and mutual sector in Australia.
• The unique nature and fundamental concepts of co-operative and mutual businesses.
• Similarities and differences from other business models including shareholder owned businesses.
• The origins and development of co-operatives and mutuals in Australia and overseas (including mutual ADIs, Friendly Societies, agricultural and retail co-ops).
• The seven global co-operative principles and the three mutual values.
• Why co-operatives and mutuals matter to a sustainable economy and society.

Guest speaker – Richard Warner, Nundah Community Enterprises Cooperative

We’re excited to have Richard Warner as our guest for our next Introduction to co-operatives and mutuals course (12 April).

Richard is coordinator of worker co-operative Nundah Community Enterprises Cooperative which was awarded best social enterprise in 2015 and 2020 at the Australian Social Enterprise Awards. Richard manages two successful businesses which create meaningful employment for people with cognitive disabilities.

Richard is also Chair of the Queensland Social Enterprise Council – Australia’s first peak for social enterprise. Richard is passionate about enterprises that see those  who are disadvantaged achieving a role, a stake and a fair share in the ownership of wealth.

Register now for 12 April, 10.30 am – 12.30 pm AEST

Register

Book online for you and your staff to attend An Introduction to Co-operatives and Mutuals – multiple dates available.

Email the BCCM education team if you require additional information.

Scholarships

Scholarships are available for employees and directors of Australian credit unions and mutual authorised deposit-taking institutions (ADIs). Expressions of interest are now open to apply for twenty full scholarships for An introduction to co-operatives and mutuals online course, to be redeemed for courses held between July and November 2022, valued at $250. Applications close at 5 pm, Tuesday, 31 May 2022 – apply online today.

The material presented by BCCM is distributed as an information source only and is subject to change without notice.

BCCM and course presenters make no statements, representations, or warranties about the accuracy, completeness or reliability of, and you should not rely on, any information contained in this presentation. You should make your own inquiries and obtain advice specific to your particular circumstances.

Despite our best efforts, to the extent permitted by law, BCCM and course presenters disclaim all responsibility and all liability (including without limitation, liability in negligence) for all expenses, losses (including direct and indirect losses), damages and costs you may incur as a result of the information presented being inaccurate or incomplete in any way, and for any reason; or being subject to update in legislation.