Senate inquiry gets the green light

06 March 2015

On 2 March, the Federal Senate voted to hold an inquiry into the operation of co-operatives and mutuals in the Australian economy. The motion was jointly proposed by Victorian Senator Bridget McKenzie and South Australian Senator Nick Xenophon. Senator Xenophon flagged the push for an inquiry at the BCCM Leaders’ Summit last November.

“It has taken some months but I’m excited by this landmark opportunity to examine the contribution of co-operatives, mutuals and member owned businesses and the current barriers to innovation, growth and free competition,” said BCCM CEO, Melina Morrison.

The Economics References Committee is currently accepting submissions until 1 July. The committee is due to report by 30 November.

Read the Terms of Reference

Read the BCCM’s Press Release

Latest news

17 February 2026

Melina Morrison on ABC RN’s Life Matters: How co‑operatives offer real choice in retail

BCCM CEO Melina Morrison joined ABC RN’s Life Matters to discuss competition in Australian retail, the role of member‑owned businesses and how co‑operatives can...
17 February 2026

Melina Morrison addresses Go Vita Conference on the enduring power of co‑operation

BCCM CEO, Melina Morrison, delivered a powerful address to the Go Vita Annual Conference on the Gold Coast this week.
17 February 2026

Scotland leads the way on community wealth building reform

The Scottish Parliament has passed landmark community wealth building legislation that sets a new global benchmark for inclusive economic development.