03 July 2026
The Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals (BCCM) will take part in LaborEngaged’26, the Fringe Program of the Australian Labor Party’s 50th National Conference in Adelaide.
The program includes panel discussions, policy roundtables, report launches and live events, bringing together leading thinkers, advocates and policymakers to discuss Australia’s future.
Key details
- Event: LaborEngaged’26 – ALP National Conference Fringe Program
- Dates: 23 – 25 July 2026
- BCCM panel: Friday 24 July, 11.00 am
- Session: What Australia can learn from the UK’s agenda to double the co-operative and mutual economy
- Location: Adelaide Convention Centre
- Tickets: Required for attendance
The BCCM’s panel brings together Australian policymakers and international expertise to explore how government policy can support the growth of the co-operative and mutual sector.
The session will feature Andrew Pakes MP, Labour (Co-op) MP for Peterborough and the UK Government’s envoy for co-operatives and mutuals. Andrew Pakes MP will share insights into the United Kingdom’s commitment to doubling the size of its co-operative and mutual economy.
He will join Australian Labor representatives in a discussion on the policy settings needed to support similar growth in Australia.
Why this matters
LaborEngaged’26 brings together Ministers, advisers, researchers, community leaders and international guests for policy discussions shaping Australia’s future.
For the co-operative and mutual sector, it provides an important opportunity to engage directly with decision-makers and contribute to national policy conversations.
The United Kingdom’s approach offers a practical example of how targeted policy reform and government commitment can support sector growth.
Co-operatives and mutuals already play a significant role across Australia’s economy, delivering services in banking, insurance, agriculture, health, housing and energy.
This discussion will explore how Australia can strengthen its policy framework to support greater participation, improve productivity and build long-term economic resilience.
The BCCM encourages members and stakeholders to attend and support the session. A strong sector presence will help demonstrate the scale, diversity and relevance of co-operatives and mutuals at a critical point in the policy cycle.
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