Game changing boost for agricultural co-ops

15 April 2016

BCCM CEO, Melina Morrison speaking to the media at the launch of the program with Acting PM Joyce and Kevin Hogan MP.

The BCCM has today welcomed the announcement by the Federal government of a $13.8 million education pilot aimed at improving farmers’ access to information on setting up and running co-operative businesses.

The Farm Co-operatives and Collaboration Pilot Program is a national two year program and will provide expert advice and information for up to 2000 farmers and 100 farmer groups across the country.

The program, was launched at Northern Rivers dairy co-operative Norco by Acting PM Barnaby Joyce and the Member for Page Kevin Hogan. The program was one of the measures announced in the Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper last year.

Commenting on the announcement, BCCM CEO, Melina Morrison said,

“Today’s announcement is an important step in closing the knowledge gap for producers who want to use this established and successful model of business. It is an unprecedented commitment of funding to level the playing field in terms of access to advice and education on innovative business models,”.

“The recent Senate inquiry into co-operative, mutual and member-owned firms recommended improving the provision of education and training on co-operatives and called on the government to encourage the establishment of new co-operatives. This program addresses those recommendations in a highly practical way,” said Ms Morrison.

The BCCM congratulated Southern Cross University (SCU) on the announcement that the university will deliver the program. SCU Vice Chancellor Professor Peter Lee said the University’s expertise, combined with the University’s focus on collaboration, were key to the approach that will be taken in delivering the project.

“We acknowledge the pivotal role that the Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals occupies in the national landscape, and we look forward to working closely with the peak body to deliver on the outcomes of the Agricultural White Paper”, added Professor Lee.

More information

Acting Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce announces funding to help farming co-operatives.
Listen to BCCM CEO, Melina Morrison, discuss the pilot program with ABC Country Hour (from 6 mins).
Search for agricultural co-op resources.