Australia's only peak body for
all coops + mutuals

Co-operatives and mutuals are member-owned businesses where benefits are derived and distributed equitably on the basis of use.  They are a rational alternative to the investor-owned business model which prioritises returns to external shareholders. Once established, many co-operative and mutual enterprises been highly successful, some serving their communities for more than 150 years.

The seven co-operative principles ensure all stakeholders in the economy – customers, workers, suppliers – can have a say in business decisions. These are:

1. Voluntary and open membership
2. Democratic member control
3. Member economic participation
4. Autonomy and independence
5. Education, training, and information
6. Co-operation among co-operatives
7. Concern for Community

Member-based businesses create competition and choice for consumers, while also giving small to medium enterprises opportunity to share the costs to access larger markets.