SPEAKING

CEHL’s newest co-op development in Brunswick has chosen its name: Mosaic.
Located in the heart of Brunswick, Mosaic CMC members are already embracing co-op living: setting up a WhatsApp group to stay connected, troubleshooting issues, and sharing resources. Moving into a new home can come with its challenges, and members have been quick to lend a hand by sharing appliance manuals, troubleshooting the intercom and ensuring neighbours feel welcome and supported. The development has sparked interest from the local community. CEHL’s GM of Co-op Services, Alyce Holmes, and GM of Asset Services, Bryan Madden, gave Merri-Bek Council a tour of the property and discussed how co-op housing works in practice. Seeing growing interest in co-operative housing as a meaningful solution to Australia’s housing climate is encouraging.
Welcome to the CEHL Co-op Community, Mosaic
Bruce and Sally’s Co-op Story
CCA Agreement Review and Working Group for Directors
Callout for Training Programme participants
Building Stronger Connections: CDCs out and about with Co-op Directors
Meet Your Co-op Elected Board Director
Regional Board Meetings
Strengthen Co-op Connections in Colac
Fiona Herman & Liz Thomas
On behalf of the Board of CEHL, we are pleased to share the 2025/26 Strategic Plan, which sets out clear actions CEHL will take in 2025/26 across three pillars: supporting our community, growing the co-op housing model, and ensuring financial and operational sustainability.
Through the Plan, the Board has reinforced its commitment to member voices and good governance, while sharpening its focus on advocacy, environmental and social impact, the long-term growth of the CEHL housing portfolio. We also remain committed to exploring and implementing affordable home ownership options for members.
On the road, the recent Regional Board Meeting in Colac was another powerful reminder of the value of connection. CEHL Board Directors Tony De Domenico and Beth Rundle joined Liz and members of the CEHL team to meet with local directors, visit local CEHL properties, and speak with the local council and the Shadow Minister for Housing and Planning. Conversations like this help strengthen local understanding and open doors for co-op housing in more communities.
We also acknowledge the return of the Labor Government following the recent federal election. We look forward to working with government and sector partners to push for greater recognition and investment in co-operative housing. Our message remains clear: $250 million annually over three years to deliver 500 new co-op homes per year — unlocking the power of co-op housing to provide stability, affordability, and genuine choice for more Australians.
Advocating for co-op housing remains a key priority, and raising awareness is central to that effort. A recent highlight was CEHL’s appearance on ABC News Breakfast, where Liz brought national attention to the co-operative housing model and its potential to help address Australia’s housing crisis. The Board considers advocacy to be a key part of Liz’s role as Managing Director of CEHL, and you can read more about her advocacy work for CEHL on page 5.
CEHL continues to invest in building new homes and maintaining our existing portfolio. There are currently 19 new properties in the development pipeline, all scheduled for completion by the end of the year, part of our commitment to growing the co-op housing supply. At the same time, the 2025/26 budget places a strong focus on maintenance and asset management, ensuring homes remain safe, sustainable, and fit for purpose.
Finally, we’re pleased to introduce Mel Abrams from Earth CERC, who has been appointed to fill the casual vacancy on the CEHL Board until the AGM election later this year. Mel will commence her role on 10 June and attend her first Board meeting on 24 June.
As we approach the midpoint of 2025, a strong momentum is building across the CEHL co-op community. From welcoming members of a new coop, to discussing the future of the CCA, this edition of Co-operatively Speaking is filled with news about what makes the co-op housing movement so strong – people, participation, and shared purpose. Enjoy the read.
In co-operation,
CEHL’s strategic objective is to sustainably maintain and grow our housing portfolio and our organisational impact.
The strategy will be implemented through 12 strategic actions under 3 pillars:
1 3 2
Meeting the needs of the CEHL community
We listen and respond to the voices of our member co-ops, co-op members, and direct renters
1.1 Strengthen ways of working with member co-ops
1.2 Implement improved service delivery model for member co-ops
1.3 Co-design and implement good governance guidelines to create and sustain thriving co-ops
1.4 Refresh and modernise CEHL’s Co-op Agreements (CCAs) and constitution to balance compliance, co-op autonomy and best-practice governance.
Driving the impact and growth of co-op housing
Being thought leaders and advocates for the growth of co-op housing and other innovative affordable housing models
2.1 Develop and implement an ESG impact framework
2.2 Proactively increase visibility and grow advocacy for cooperative housing as an affordable housing strategy
2.3 Nurture a distinctive CEHL brand that reflects international co-operative principles, to highlight our distinctiveness, showcase our success and promote interest in co-operative housing
2.4 Explore and implement affordable ownership options for our members (including shared equity and limited equity housing schemes)
Operational and financial sustainability
Developing our people and our organisation to support impactful delivery over the longer term
3.1 Implement the right systems, tools, and ways of working to support our people and organisation to develop and grow
3.2 Develop a long term portfolio growth strategy that meets the diverse housing current and future needs of the CEHL community
3.3 Develop a long term funding and finance strategy to support growth and sustainability of the CEHL portfolio
3.4 Establish partnerships to diversify funding sources and accelerate portfolio growth
CCA Review Session – Metro Southeast Tuesday 24 June
CCA Review Session – Bendigo Wednesday 25 June
CCA Review Session – Shepparton Thursday 26 June
CCA Review Session – CMC face to face session Monday 23 June
CCA Review Session – CMC online session Monday 30 June
Metro West Regional Board Meeting (Werribee)
Peninsula Regional Board Meeting (Frankston)
New Member Induction Sessions
Link: https://events.humanitix.com/ cehl-induction-for-new-members:
Tuesday 1 July
Thursday 28 August
Wednesday 13 August and Thursday 6 November
CEHL is a rental provider committed to providing excellent service to its renters.
CEHL must also provide our employees with a psychologically and physically safe workplace. The wellbeing of our team members is paramount. CEHL has zero tolerance for intimidating, abusive, threatening or aggressive language or behaviour towards our team or anyone in our workplace.
Our team will always treat you with courtesy and respect. In return, if you are working with our team members, we ask you to treat them the same way.
Any renter who verbally or physically intimidates, abuses or threatens any member of our team, in person, in writing or over the telephone, will be provided with a first and final written warning advising that the behaviour will not be tolerated.
Any future violation may result in CEHL having to decline to work directly with the renter, in person or over the phone. Interaction will be limited to written communication.
Advocacy is key to growing support for co-op housing as a real solution to Australia’s housing crisis. By showcasing the impact of the rental housing co-operative model and influencing policy, CEHL is helping put co-op housing on the national agenda.
Strengthening the recent media attention, Managing Director, Liz Thomas, has been appointed to the Board of the Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals (BCCM) — the peak body for Australian Co-ops and Mutuals and a national platform committed to promoting co-op housing as a key part of Australia’s affordable housing strategy.
Co-op Housing on ABC TV
CEHL’s Managing Director, Liz Thomas spoke with ABC News Breakfast last month, highlighting how the unique co-op housing model works and how it could be expanded across more of Australia with the right investment was a powerful message to convey on national TV.
Rental Housing Cooperatives create a “Sense of Home”
New research from Swinburne University of Technology reveals that living in a housing cooperative fosters a deep sense of home - shaped by participation, autonomy, and community.’
Residents’ participation, long-term stability, and community-building strengthen a sense of home in co-ops. Studies like these can help form better housing policies.
LINK: https://bit.ly/CEHL_News3
BCCM highlights CEHL as a leading example of co-op housing and calls on the new government to fund more co-op housing
The Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals (BCCM) has called on the newly re-elected Albanese Government to put co-ops and mutuals into core economic and social policy. Highlighting CEHL as a leading example in co-op housing, BCCM advocates for the sector to grow from less than 1% to 10% of the housing market.
LINK: https://bit.ly/CEHL_News1
What would you rather: 25 level crossing removals, or 20,000 new social homes for Victoria?
For CEHL, it’s a no-brainer and that’s why we agreed to be a part of this story. Community Housing Industry Association Victoria calls on the state government to reprioritise its $5.4 billion budget to the urgent need for social housing.
LINK: https://bit.ly/CEHL_News2
We spoke to some Mosaic directors and members about how they’re settling in, what this new co-op means to them, and how and why they chose the name Mosaic.
Mosaic Director Anna shared that while the co-op initially considered a name inspired by the greenery that will eventually climb the high-rise building, they ultimately chose one that reflects their co-op values — looking after one another and working together.
Mosaic was chosen to capture the idea of different people coming together to create something new.
Anna, who has stepped into the role of General CMC Director has been enthusiastically setting up her new home. With a background in public housing, she brings a valuable combination of professional expertise and personal passion, grounded in her belief that everyone deserves a safe place to call home.
Another of the Mosaic Directors, Brian, brings a wealth of experience, having lived in the Lakewood Co-op for 14 years and taking on several leadership roles during that time.
Brian told us that when he first heard about the Brunswick development, he spoke to his son and daughter, who assured him that he’d enjoy the change of pace and great food the area offers.
Brian has assumed a director role, and with sustainability in mind, he wants to ensure the co-op’s collective waste management is efficient, clean, and organised.
“There will be challenges, that’s why I’m keen on teamwork. You want to know you can go away for the weekend and things will be sorted if something pops up,” Brian said.
Anna found the process of applying for co-op housing empowering. Having worked in and lived in social housing for much of her life, she felt this was a positive step forward.
“I’ve seen in public housing; you have to convince them why not having housing is detrimental to your wellbeing, because there are such long wait lists.”
“In the co-op, it’s about putting forward your best self. What can I contribute? What can I bring? When I applied for Wilson Ave, I felt like I was proving what I’m capable of... whereas previously with public housing I felt I had to prove what a wreck I was.”
For new member Lucy, the co-op has already made a meaningful impact. A kindergarten teacher currently on maternity leave with her second child, she says the affordability and stability of co-op housing has given her the space to plan.
“If I was in private rental, I’d have to work full-time — and that would make life a lot harder,” Lucy said.
With a long-term home in place, Lucy is now focusing on what’s next.
“I’ve applied for casual work and I’m about to start a Master’s in Speech Pathology. It would’ve been a lot harder to study without stable housing. This takes the stress off.”
We’re excited to welcome Mosaic to the CEHL community. The co-op’s next step is to establish its constitution, and we look forward to seeing that process unfold ahead of an official opening later this year.
Bruce and Sally have been part of the CEHL co-op community for more than a decade – first in Bendigo, and more recently in Geelong to be closer to family.
It all started with a fence.
In 2010, Bruce and Sally’s daughter and son-in-law, were building a house in Bendigo, buying a block of land among other soon to be developed lots. When it came time to fence the property, they looked up who owned the land next door.
“What or who on earth is Common Equity Housing?”
Sally remembers the family asking.
A quick Google search answered that question and sparked their curiosity, planting a seed in their minds.
Fast forward a few years – a fence is erected, homes are built, and Sally and Bruce couldn’t shake the feeling that co-operative housing “could be a go.”
After 18 years of owning and operating a party store, the couple were heading into retirement, looking for something to keep them busy but with the flexibility they needed to accommodate Sally’s medical appointments.
As it happened, some co-op opportunities were opening in Bendigo, and the couple attended an information session to learn more.
“We were thinking, jeez, actually, that would be suitable for us,”
Bruce recalls.
And it was. The couple moved into their new home in 2013, joining Rainbow Eight CERC in Bendigo. The house was a bit of a fixer-upper, but the couple was excited to make it their own. Bendigo had just come out of a decade-long drought. The garden was dry, the trees overgrown, and not much had survived. Still, the couple saw potential straight away. The weatherboard house, they agreed, “had good bones.” “Bruce already had a chainsaw and was ready to go!”
Sally says.
Together for 47 years, the couple shine when telling stories together. They finish each other’s sentences, adding in extra detail if the other forgets, and move the story forward if one gets carried away. Talking about their time in co-op housing is no different.
“It’s people, that’s what co-op housing comes down to. We’re a huge believer in it, it’s terrific when people co-operate –excuse the pun!” Sally laughs.
“You get to know a lot of people over the years – from our co-op and others in CEHL. Some you stay in contact with and catch up with, talk about the work and issues. We’ve made great connections,” Bruce says.
They’ve always taken pride in knowing their neighbours and see being part of a co-operative as “being part of a team.”
Bruce has held many director positions at Rainbow Eight. Known for being very hands-on and practical, he’d often be seen with his toolkit fixing taps or checking smoke alarms at the various properties.
Like any small business, managing a housing co-op comes with its challenges. At one point, the co-op faced a significant financial setback that required urgent attention and a coordinated response. Bruce took on the role of treasurer, working closely with CEHL’s finance team to stabilise the situation. Within 12 months, the co-op’s finances were back on track — a moment Bruce describes as a real turning point and a huge relief.
The Director Assistance Program (DAP) is a free, innovative counselling and support service available to all Co-op Directors.
Funded by CEHL, this program is designed to assist directors in their roles by providing guidance and support when needed.
Sally and Bruce relocated to Grovedale three years ago to be closer to their daughter and grandchild. They moved into a home specifically designed for people over 55 — an ideal fit for Sally’s mobility needs.
As they prepared for the move, another family was settling into one of the larger homes in their co-op. Seeing an opportunity to help, Bruce and Sally offered their furniture to the new family, who were just starting out and didn’t have much. It made downsizing easier for them — and made a big difference for someone else.
“It was such a thrill to be able to help out our community – and we say again, that’s what co-op housing is about,” Sally says.
When the couple moved, they became Vic-Wide tenants and but have recently joined Geelong West CERC after an itch to get back into the co-op community.
Bruce and Sally love the area and its proximity to their beloved U3A (University of the Third Age) classes. Bruce goes to history classes and is currently learning about the trials of Oscar Wilde. Sally likes the ‘Let’s Talk About That’ debating classes.
“They’ve got so many different classes and things to learn together,” Sally says. “The world is constantly changing, and we believe you should always be learning new stuff.”
Three, one hour sessions are available each year.
Alyce Holmes General Manager Co-op Services
The Co-op/CEHL Agreement (CCA), CEHL’s head leasing agreement with co-ops, is under review. CEHL is working with an independent facilitator to support consultation with co-ops and facilitate eleven face-to-face consultation sessions with co-op directors throughout June. CDCs will attend to offer support to co-op directors.
The next step in the review process is to form a Working Group to consider proposed changes and help ensure the final agreement is fair, practical, and reflects the needs of all co-ops.
Co-op directors are invited to express their interest in joining the group through an expression of interest process. The Terms of Reference for the Working Group, along with details of the EOI process, are available on the CCA Online Hub. Both the group and the process will also be discussed during each of the ten CCA Review Sessions.
We encourage all co-op directors — irrespective of whether you’re attending a CCA Review Session — to join the Online Hub. It’s the central place for updates, resources, and session information throughout the review process.
To get started, speak to your co-op secretary, who can provide the details you need to sign up and stay informed.
Would you like to get involved in developing a national training program for co-op members?
The Australian Co-operative Housing Alliance (ACHA) is partnering with co-op housing organisations nationwide to create a national training platform. Common Equity NSW has secured a small grant to kickstart this initiative and fund the development of two courses:
1. An introduction to co-op housing (designed for new co-op members)
2. A training course for co-op secretaries
CEHL is leading the development of the training modules, with support from partner states and we’re seeking co-op members to join an online group in mid-August, to share their feedback about the course design and the proposed course structure.
Whether you’re a new or long-standing co-op member, living in a metro or regional area, serving as a member or director, we’d love to hear from you if you are interested in filling one of the 10 spots available for CEHL co-op members.
If you’re interested in this, contact Co-op Development
Coordinator Amanda Roe at amanda.roe@cehl.com.au
Everyone has the right to feel safe and respected in their home.
CEHL engages qualified tradespeople to carry out repairs and maintenance on properties. While most contractors act professionally and respectfully, we’re aware of a recent report where this standard has not been met.
CEHL has zero tolerance for inappropriate behaviour, and we expect all contractors to treat co-op members with professionalism and courtesy and in return, tradespeople should be treated with respect by co-op members.
1. Set clear boundaries: If a tradesperson behaves in a way that makes you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, you have every right to speak up. You can ask them to stop or leave your property if their conduct is inappropriate or unprofessional.
2. Document what happened: If you experience or witness concerning behaviour, keep a written record of the incident. Note the date, time, what occurred, and any witnesses. This helps ensure CEHL can follow up and take appropriate action.
3. Report it: If you’re in a CERC, please report the incident to your Co-op Maintenance Director.
4. If you experience inappropriate behaviour from a CEHL contractor, contact CEHL on 9208 0800 as soon as possible.
At CEHL, we understand that strong relationships are at the heart of successful co-ops. That’s why the Co-op Development Coordinators (CDCs) are out on the road — catching up with co-op directors across the state to listen, support, and collaborate.
These visits are more than routine check-ins; they’re a key part of building trust, strengthening governance, and ensuring that each co-op feels connected, heard, and supported. Whether it’s a formal planning session or a casual coffee, these moments of connection help us better understand the unique strengths and needs of each co-op community.
Located in the Bendigo region, Aegis CERC manages a diverse portfolio of 18 properties. CEHL CDC Kim enjoyed working with this enthusiastic and engaged team as they finalised their Co-op Housing Plans. Their commitment and positive energy made the session both productive and fun.
CDC Kim also caught up with Anette and Caitlin from Eyrie CERC over coffee. Together, they wrapped up their Co-op Housing Plans and had a valuable discussion around CIRCUIT maintenance reporting.
Attending Dragon City CERC’s general meeting was a great opportunity for Kim to see the co-op in action. The meeting included a heartfelt acknowledgement of Trudy’s recent passing, a vibrant and valued member whose presence is deeply missed.
The co-op also welcomed new member Debra and celebrated another member’s successful downsizing move—a positive outcome that supports the co-op’s long-term sustainability. Members discussed plans for solar energy initiatives, and directors were sincerely thanked for their ongoing efforts, particularly their prompt attention to maintenance.
For Kim, one of the most moving moments of her trip to the Bendigo region was reconnecting with Trish from Central Vic CERC. Trish is nothing short of remarkable. Despite undergoing chemotherapy her positivity is strong. “She told me that co-op work has become a welcome distraction that keeps her focused and connectedconnected,” said Kim.
“Her spirit is inspiring, and moments like this remind me just how powerful the co-op model can be in people’s lives.”
With more than three decades of co-op living behind him, Joe Montero brings a deep understanding of what makes co-operative housing work – and why it matters. He’s been a member of St Euphrasias CERC in Carlton for the past 12 years and before that, Joe was involved with St Joseph’s Co-op. Over the past 12 years, Carlton’s housing landscape has undergone a dramatic shift, with escalating prices and limited affordable options.
“I got to see how change could happen from the inside,” he says. “People encouraged me to consider running for the board, and I decided to go for it.”
A strong advocate for the value of lived experience in leadership, Joe believes it brings critical insight to decision-making.
“It’s one thing to read a report about how co-ops work. It’s another thing to live it every day for 30 years. That insight wasn’t always seen as valuable in the past—but it’s starting to be recognised now, and that’s important.”
Joe describes the transformative impact that co-op housing has had on his life. Without it, he wouldn’t still be living in Carlton – market pressures would have pushed him out long ago. Instead, co-op housing has provided stability, affordability and a sense of community.
Over the years, Joe has seen both his local co-op community, and the wider CEHL community program go through significant change.
“There was a breakdown in trust and communication, both within our co-op and in the broader program. But I’ve also seen how much has changed. In the last few years, there’s been a real effort to rebuild relationships and put co-ops back at the heart of decision-making.”
As an Elected CEHL Board Director, Joe has played an active role in shaping that change, including participating in the Board workshop to develop CEHL’s current strategic plan.
“It’s not just a document. It’s a commitment to strengthening the role of co-ops. We’re moving away from model where CEHL is simply a housing manager. We’re working to support co-ops to thrive as independent, democratic organisations.”
Joe’s also a member of the Finance Committee and is preparing for upcoming work reviewing the Co-op and CEHL Agreement (CCA) — a core governance document that guides the partnership between CEHL and member co-ops.
“Getting the CCA right is critical. It’s the foundation for how we work together.”
Joe is particularly passionate about supporting other members to step into leadership roles.
“I’d love to see co-op members put their hand up for election to the CEHL Board,” Joe says. “You don’t need to have all the answers — what matters is that you care about the program and want to contribute.”
His advice to potential board members is simple but important.
“Learn as much as you can. Read the CEHL Constitution, understand the responsibilities of directors, and talk to others who’ve done it. It’s not just about representing your co-op — it’s about serving the whole program. That perspective is important.”
He also encourages new board members to make use of the support available from CEHL.
“There’s a mentorship program for directors, which helps a lot. It takes time to find your feet and understand how the board works, but there’s guidance along the way. And once you settle in, it’s incredibly rewarding. You’re helping shape the future of co-op housing in Victoria.”
If you are interested in becoming an Elected Board Member, start by speaking with your Co-op Directors and your CEHL Co-op Development Coordinator (CDC), and continue reading Co-operatively Speaking for more discussions on Elected Directors.
The recent Colac Regional Board Meeting was a valuable opportunity to connect with the local co-op community. The visit included property inspections, meetings with council representatives and local MPs, and a board meeting with regional co-op directors.
Managing Director, Liz, GM of Co-op Services, Alyce and Board Directors Beth Rundle and Tony De Domenico met with local Liberal MP Richard Riordan, Victoria’s Shadow Minister for Housing and Planning. He was genuinely interested in the co-operative housing model and engaged in a wide-ranging discussion about how it operates.
The Regional Board Meeting also provided a valuable opportunity to brief the Colac Otway Shire Council on the co-operative housing model and highlight the two CEHL co-ops managing 26 properties within the local government area. It was encouraging to see growing interest at the local level and meaningful engagement with both the Council and Mr Riordan.
Dinner at Dar Teta — Arabic for “Grandmother’s House” — felt warm and welcoming, like dining at home. It was a relaxed setting for CEHL’s newest CDC, Amanda Roe, to meet more local co-op directors. Like past meetings in Bendigo and Gippsland, the event allowed CEHL to share key updates and hear from directors about what matters to their co-ops.
Several co-op directors raised the planned high-density Homes Victoria development on Pound Road, which has drawn widespread community concern regarding its location and design. It sparked thoughtful dinner table conversation about the potential for co-operative housing in the region — and what opportunities might emerge as more decision-makers become familiar with CEHL and the value of the co-op model.
CEHL is committed to embracing diversity and eliminating discrimination. Our workplace and housing services are inclusive, and we welcome everyone irrespective of ethnicity, lifestyle choice, faith, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
We acknowledge and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as Australia’s First People and Traditional Custodians of Country. CEHL will continue to advocate for a fairer, more inclusive society, and provide housing services that are welcoming, safe, and culturally appropriate
We’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on this newsletter.
Let us know if you’d like to know more about any of the articles or want something included in the next issue. Please contact Kristina Innes on: Phone 9208 0800 | Freecall 1800 353 669 | Email engage@cehl.com.au | Web cehl.com.au
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