Mutual mindset: An Introduction to Co-operatives and Mutuals 2026
Mutual mindset: An Introduction to Co-operatives and Mutuals 2026
Do you have new employees unfamiliar with co-operative and mutual structures and their purpose? Or do you have directors and executives looking to deepen their knowledge of the sector? This is a 2-hour online program designed to provide a general introduction to the co-ops and mutual industry in Australia and globally.
This course is suitable for anyone new to co-operatives and mutuals and those looking for a refresher and information on the live sector. It can be tailored to your existing induction training program, or your employees can take one of our online classes throughout the year.
It is facilitated by well-known co-operative development expert Antony McMullen and includes live interaction and a guest speaker.
About this course
The key objective is to educate and inspire people working in the sector to understand more about the unique role and contribution of co-operatives and mutuals to help them in their role in their CME, whether frontline staff, management or directors. It will help build a meaningful connection between the employee and the wider CME sector, as well as strengthen the relationship with their individual employer.
This is achieved through a deeper understanding of the fundamental principles which underpin co-operatives and mutuals as businesses that put purpose, people, and communities at the heart of the enterprise.
It is delivered in a live, interactive webinar structure with a unique live Q&A with a sector leader. Knowledge is delivered in a fun and accessible format.
By undertaking the course, your employees will learn:
- About the co-operative and mutual business model and how it is different to other kinds of business structures.
- About the purpose of co-ops and mutuals and how they are structured to benefit members.
- Some real examples of co-ops and mutuals through case studies.
- How co-ops and mutuals started here and around the world.
- Why working for a co-op or mutual matters – in a live conversation with a senior co-op or mutual business leader.
Learning outcomes
Upon completing the course, attendees will be able to demonstrate their understanding of:
- The size, scale and impact of the co-op and mutual sector in Australia.
- The unique nature and fundamental concepts of co-operative and mutual businesses.
- Similarities and differences from other business models, including shareholder-owned businesses.
- The origins and development of co-operatives and mutuals in Australia and overseas (including mutual ADIs, Friendly Societies and agricultural and retail co-ops).
- Co-operative and mutual identity, values and principles.
- Why co-operatives and mutuals matter to a sustainable economy and society.
Length: 2 hours
Delivery mode: Online
Professional development: 2 CPD points are awarded
Price
- BCCM Member (1-9 registrations) – $283 plus GST and booking fee
- BCCM Member (10+ registrations) – $220 plus GST and booking fee
- Non-BCCM Members – $509 plus GST and booking fee
Date
Facilitator - Antony McMullen
Antony McMullen is a seasoned co-operative developer committed to building local prosperity for the common good. His passion for good governance is recognized through his designation as Fellow of the Governance Institute of Australia (formerly Chartered Secretaries Australia); he co-drafted the Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals (BCCM) Co-operative and Mutual Enterprise best-practice governance framework. He holds qualifications in social impact (social entrepreneurship), community development, community services management and co-operative leadership.
Antony has helped develop and has co-founded several co-operatives, serving on co-operative boards as both Secretary and Chair, so he has a firsthand understanding of the benefits and challenges of the co-operative business model. He is the co-founder of the first co-operative co-working space in Melbourne – 888 Co-operative Causeway – which hosts regular social and solidarity economy events and even a podcast (The Co-operative Way).
Guest experts
Ben Woods, Senior Archivist, Australian Mutuals Archives
Ben Woods is an archivist, librarian and journalist and holds a Masters of Human Rights. He is the Senior Archivist at Australian Mutuals Archives where he has worked for nine years and is also the Archivist at SDN Children’s Services. SDN celebrated its 120th anniversary in 2025 and to celebrate this milestone SDN published Ben’s book Breaking Down Barriers a history of integrated service delivery at SDN Children’s Services.
Siobhan Henderson, Head of Social Impact & Strategy Manager, Australian Unity
Siobhan leads Australian Unity’s social impact work, including the Australian Unity Wellbeing Index and their wellbeing outcomes measurement framework. This framework assigns a financial value to Australian Unity’s social impact, which is used in reporting and informing strategic and investment decisions. Siobhan is focused on aligning organisational strategy and commercial endeavours with meaningful positive social impact.
Email the BCCM education team if you require additional information.
The material presented by the BCCM is distributed as an information source only and is subject to change without notice.
The BCCM and course presenters make no statements, representations, or warranties about the accuracy, completeness or reliability of, and you should not rely on, any information contained in this presentation. You should make your own inquiries and obtain advice specific to your particular circumstances.
Despite our best efforts, to the extent permitted by law, BCCM and course presenters disclaim all responsibility and all liability (including without limitation, liability in negligence) for all expenses, losses (including direct and indirect losses), damages and costs you may incur as a result of the information presented being inaccurate or incomplete in any way, and for any reason; or being subject to update in legislation.