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 – 11:50 am
- Session: What Australia can learn from the UK’s agenda to double the co-operative and mutual economy
- Location: Adelaide Convention Centre (Fringe Room 1)
- Tickets: Required for attendance
Panellists:
- Andrew Pakes MP, UK Government Envoy for Co-operatives and Mutuals
- Melina Morrison, CEO, Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals
- Michael Pilbrow, Delegate for Riverina
- Linda Scott, Delegate for Sydney
In the week when Andy Burnham becomes UK Prime Minister as a Labour & Co-operative MP in No. 10, we are honoured to be joined at National Conference by a senior member of his team – Andrew Pakes MP, UK Government Envoy for Co-operatives and Mutuals.
On this panel, Andrew will share insights into UK Labour’s commitment to doubling the size of its co-operative and mutual economy and how it aligns with the new PM’s ‘growth in every postcode’. He will be joined in conversation by Australian policymakers to explore how Labor Governments can support the growth of the co-operative and mutual sector here as part of our commitment for all Australians to have a stake in the economy.
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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