An Introduction to Co-operatives and Mutuals

Mutual mindset: An introduction to co-operatives and mutuals

Do you have new employees unfamiliar with co-operative and mutual structures and their purpose? Or do you have directors and executives looking to deepen their knowledge of the sector? This is a 2-hour online program designed to provide a general introduction to the co-ops and mutual industry in Australia and globally.

This course is suitable for anyone new to co-operatives and mutuals and those looking for a refresher and information on the live sector. It can be tailored to your existing induction training program, or your employees can take one of our online classes throughout the year.

It is facilitated by well-known co-operative development expert Antony McMullen and includes live interaction and two guest speakers.

About this course

The key objective is to educate and 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 as strengthen 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, interactive webinar structure with a unique live Q&A with two sector leaders. 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 are started here and around the world.
5. Why working for a co-op or mutual matters – in live conversations with two senior co-op or mutual business leaders.

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 and 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.

Melanie Bainbridge, Founder and Executive Director, The Pack Music Cooperative 

Melanie Bainbridge is a true social impact nerd with a passion for the arts and sustainability – and the sustainability of the arts. She believes that music is the original social enterprise, and has recently turned her mind to applying her two decades of strategy, policy, project management, stakeholder relations, campaigning and community consultation skills; and her writing, creative development and leadership skills to building a new economic model for music streaming. Melanie’s co-operative philosophy is this: there can never be too much truth or beauty in this world – so the more people working together towards creativity, the better!

Book online.

Email the BCCM education team if you require additional information.

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

The 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.