Co-operatively Speaking - October 2025 - Single Pages by CommonEquityHousingLtd

IN THIS ISSUE

Second Annual ACHA

Summit in Melbourne

Merri Co-op Homes Take Part in Climate Safe Room Trial

Australian Co-op Housing Summit 2025

“My message today for this room, is that we are keen to work with the people in this room. We’re keen to work with the co-op sector. We’re keen to ensure that, while co-op housing is not excluded from government programs, that there is a fair playing field.”

Josh Burns, Federal Labor Member for McNamara and Special Envoy for Social Housing and Homelessness addressed the crowd at the second annual Australian Co-operative Housing Alliance (ACHA), Summit in on September 18.

“I know that one thing we all share and want is for Australians and our fellow community members to have that sense of belonging and that sense of place. When you add the extra effort that co-ops are asking of people [...] you get that sense of belonging,” Mr Burns said. The presence of a Federal Member of Parliament, together with the media attention the summit attracted shows that co-ops are increasingly part of the national housing conversation.

Reflecting on a year of growth and achievement

With the 2024/25 financial year complete, this is a chance to step back and reflect on what has been accomplished together. Reviewing our Key Performance Measures (KPMs) shows the strength of co-ops and CEHL working together — delivering stronger compliance, greater recognition through advocacy, and deeper investment in the skills and confidence of members and directors.

CEHL is pleased to report improved performance across several key measures with the Victorian Housing Registrar — particularly vacant and tenantable properties. We achieved an average of 17.8 days, a significant reduction from last year’s 24-day average. This marks a notable improvement, as CEHL achieved a satisfactory rating in this area for the first time in nine years.

Building recognition through advocacy

Advocacy for co-operative housing is continuing to gain the attention of decision-makers. This month’s issue of Co-operative Speaking features the second annual Australian Co-operative Housing Alliance (ACHA) Summit. The event was a great success, building on the strong attendance and energy of the inaugural Adelaide Summit in 2024. The summit brought together national and international leaders in co-operative housing, alongside local and federal politicians – adding weight and influence to the discussions.

CEHL and ACHA, supported by BCCM, are continuing to raise the profile of co-op housing across the country. It is clear that momentum is building for this housing model. See page 5 for a full overview.

Investing in learning and leadership

Alongside operational strength and national advocacy, CEHL remains committed to building the skills and confidence of co-op members. Over the past year, we delivered training to more than 41 co-ops, with 277 members and directors taking part.

Sessions covered core governance skills, role inductions, tenancy processes, and VCAT hearings, as well as mentoring and group learning. This tailored approach ensures members are equipped to meet challenges and strengthen their co-ops for the future.

If your co-op needs tailored support, CEHL’s Co-operative Development Coordinators can work alongside you to design customised training that addresses your priorities.

Remembering Kaye Cutler

Finally, CEHL and Lakewood Co-op would like to acknowledge the passing of Kaye Cutler, a muchloved Director at Lakewood Co-op. Kaye was known for her kindness, sharp wit, and generosity – often bringing handmade suppers to share at meetings. Lakewood members remember her as wise, full of laughter, and “always dressed snappy.”

Earlier this year, Kaye met Housing Minister Claire O’Neill and Treasurer Jim Chalmers, and recently elected Labor Member for Deakin, Matt Gregg, when they visited Lakewood to learn more about co-op housing.

Liz Thomas

Fiona Herman

Important Dates =

WHAT’S HAPPENING WHEN

Ballarat Regional Board Meeting, Ballarat

Metro South-East Regional Board Meeting, Springvale

CEHL Annual General Meeting (AGM)

New Member Induction Sessions

CEHL Christmas Office Closure

The CEHL office will be closed on the following dates over the holiday period.

Tuesday, October 28

Tuesday, November 11

Saturday, November 22

Thursday, November 6 6-7:00 PM

Closed: Wednesday 24th, Thursday 25th, Friday 26th December, Thursday 1st and Friday 2nd January

AGM - SAVE THE DATE

CEHL invites all Co-op Boards, Directors and Members to the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM).

When: Saturday 22 November 2025

Time: 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM. Arrival from 10:00am

Where: Cliftons Conference Centre (note new venue) – Level 1/440 Collins Street, Melbourne

The meeting will be followed by the opportunity to share time with fellow co-op members and the CEHL team over a light lunch.

CEHL invites all members to attend and asks that you speak with your Co-op Secretary for further details.

The AGM Pack — including the Notice of AGM and Proxy Voting Form — will be sent to Co-op Secretaries in mid-October. We encourage all boards to consider the resolutions and decide how your co-op will vote.

CO-OPERATIVES IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Co-op housing is in the DNA of our regional communities

On the way to the Rutherglen Regional Board-to-Board meeting, CEHL Managing Director, Liz Thomas spoke with ABC Goulburn Murray about how co-ops are thriving in regional communities.

Listen to her full interview here: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7376456068652044288

“Co-ops helping to plug the housing gap” AFR

The Australian Financial Review covered the ACHA Summit, highlighting co-operative housing as a credible part of Australia’s housing solution. The article featured Merri CERC Co-op Director, Kylie Lawson, who shared her lived experience of the benefits. It showed that co-ops are now gaining serious attention from both policymakers and the housing sector.

Read here: https://cehl.com.au/australian-financial-review-co-ops-do-their-part-for-housing-affordability/

“Waking up from that great Australian dream” of home ownership

CEHL Managing Director, Liz Thomas spoke to ABC National Mornings about the role co-operative housing can play in Australia’s housing future, with Liz highlighting their role in shaping a fairer housing future.

Listen to her full interview here https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/radionational-breakfast/nationalhousing-summit-latest-news/105786536

“Left-field housing fix floated”

The Canberra Times covered the ACHA Summit, highlighting what can be learnt from the United Kingdom, Canada and Europe to move Australia out of the “never-ending housing nightmare”.

Read the full article here https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/9069508/only-getting-worse-left-fieldhousing-fix-floated/

Property Market News

The Australian Property Markets News also covered the ACHA Summit, proving the growing interest across all different sectors in our co-op model.

https://propertymarkets.news/national-housing-summit-on-september-18/

This breadth of coverage - across mainstream, political and industry media — shows the growing recognition of co-operative housing as not just an alternative, but a necessary part of solving Australia’s housing crisis.

If you are a co-op member and interested in taking part in future media stories, please contact Kirsty.Frame@cehl.com.au

Bendigo and Larrakeyah recognised at Australasian Housing Awards

CEHL celebrates the Bendigo regional co-ops’ win in the Tenant-Led Initiative category at the 2025 Australasian Housing Institute (AHI) Brighter Future Awards (VIC/TAS).

Often referred to as “coffee catch ups” the eight Bendigo co-ops would come together to provide support, share ideas and problem solve together..

An example of this shared problem solving been setting up a joint safety system for all co-ops. By hiring a local contractor to carry out smoke alarm, gas and electrical checks, the co-ops cut costs, reduced stress, and made homes safer for everyone.

The group also joined forces to tackle member recruitment. Together, they hosted an information session at the Bendigo Library to introduce people to co-operative housing. The event attracted 35 locals interested in joining, helping secure the future of their communities.

Winning this award shows how member-led co-ops can create positive change when they work together. Bendigo co-ops are showcasing two key international co-operative principles: concern for community and cooperation among co-operatives.

CEHL received further recognition with the Leading Asset Management award for the Grovedale redevelopment project. The project transformed a single-home block into six single-storey units, increasing Larrakeyah’s housing stock from 13 to 19.

These awards recognise the creativity, commitment, and collaboration of the CEHL co-op housing program, and our capacity to deliver meaningful impact across Victoria.

CEHL will now represent these two categories for Victoria and Tasmania at the national Australasian awards on October 14th in Perth.

From left: Co-op Director Karren Walker, CEHL Co-op Services General Manager Alyce Holmes, CEHL Managing Director Liz Thomas

Continued from page 1.

ACHA Summit brings change-makers together

The second annual ACHA Summit brought together speakers from across Australia and around the world, each bringing a unique perspective on their co-op housing experience.

The founders of All Nations, Australia’s first transgender housing co-op shared how they secured safe housing for their community in collaboration with the City of Sydney Council. Leaders of STUCCO, Sydney’s longrunning student housing co-op, spoke about creating affordable homes for university students in the heart of one of the country’s most expensive rental markets.

CEHL was strongly represented, with staff and co-op directors presenting and attending sessions. A highlight was a panel on how co-ops support placemaking for vulnerable people, featuring Dragon City CERC Director Sharon Scott, CEHL Co-op Services General Manager, Alyce Holmes and Karren Walker - long-time Sunshine CERC Co-op Director, former CEHL Board Chair, and now CEO of United Housing Co-op in Melbourne. Together, they showed that co-ops are more than just housing – they are places to heal, connect, and thrive.

Melina Morrison, CEO of the Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals, introduced the day’s closing speaker, Melbourne’s Deputy Mayor Roshena Campbell. Ms Campbell wrapped up the Summit with a powerful call to reimagine a new housing future for the city.

“It’s time that Australia identifies some new dreams and some new ways to realise them. The reality is the role of every level of government is to make sure that every Australian has a roof over their head,” she said.

The 2025 ACHA Summit brought fresh energy and renewed purpose to the co-op housing sector. It reinforced the power of partnerships between communities, providers and governments, and highlighted the importance of keeping co-ops firmly in the public conversation. More than a fallback for those who can’t afford other options, co-ops are being recognised as a housing choice that offers security, community and long-term value.

ACHA Chair and CEHL Managing Director, Liz Thomas, summed up the day. “Co-ops are proving that housing can be done differently, at scale, sustainably, and with people at the centre.”

Special Envoy for Social Housing and Homelessness, Josh Burns opens the Summit

Chantelle Martin of One Nations Co-op

CEHL Co-op Services General Manager Alyce Holmes Dragon CERC directors Skye Egan and Sharon Scott

Josh Burns with ACHA Chair and CEHL Managing Director, Liz Thomas

Dragon CERC Director, Sharon Scott

CEHL Board Chair, Fiona Herman with Board Directors, Dr Sylwia Gred-Bogusz, Beth Rundle and Joe Montero

CEHL Co-op Development Coordinator Kim Rattray-Wood and Dragon CERC Director Sharon Scott

Dragon CERC Director, Skye Egan with CEHL Board Director, Beth Rundle

CEHL staff in attendance

Sun CERC Director, Karren Walker

CO-OP DIRECTOR UPDATE

Alyce Holmes General Manager Co-op Services

Co-op AGM deadline

A reminder that the Co-op AGM deadline is approaching. Under Co-op National Law 2013, all co-ops are required to hold their AGMs by the end of November each year.

If your co-op AGM isn’t held before this date, you will need to apply for an extension through Consumer Affairs Victoria. https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/licensing-and-registration/cooperatives/responsibilities-of-a-co-operative

If you need assistance, please reach out to your Co-operative Development Coordinator.

Bushfire readiness

As we head into spring and summer, now is the time to prepare.

Some co-ops in Victoria are in bushfire-prone areas. If you live near forest, bush, grassland or the coast, please get your property ready and have a plan in place. The Country Fire Authority (CFA) provides clear, step-by-step guides and checklists –covering things like clearing gutters and around the home, keeping grass short and combustibles away, and knowing when to leave and the safest routes. You can find practical advice at the CFA website: https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/how-to-prepare-yourproperty

ZERO TOLERANCE

for abusive or aggressive behaviour towards CEHL employees

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.

Climate-Safe Rooms: Co-ops Trial a New Approach to Extreme Weather

Over the past year, two co-op members took part in the City of Yarra’s Climate Safe Room pilot program. The initiative offered up to $10,000 in free energy upgrades for eligible tenants whose health conditions put them at greater risk during heatwaves or cold snaps.

The program is an example of how CEHL explores and shares opportunities that benefit co-ops. By connecting with the City of Yarra, local co-op members were able to access upgrades that improve the safety, comfort and affordability of their homes.

A Co-op Member’s Experience

One of those members is Paul Wildermoth, a Merri CERC member and part of their maintenance and well-being committee. Paul lives in an inner-north property built over 100 years ago – a house with “gaps in the windows, gaps in the floorboards, very little insulation in the walls, and a constant cold draught in winter.”

Living with chronic health conditions, Paul struggled through winters with high gas bills reaching $600 every two months.

That’s where the Energy Efficiency and Electrification Alliance (3EA) came in. A not-forprofit leading home thermal energy retrofits for a low-carbon future, 3EA was contracted by the City of Yarra to deliver Paul’s Climate Safe Room. They assessed the property and recommended how to best use the funding.

The retrofit included:

• New insulation installed in the roof around Paul’s living room

• Draught-proofing measures throughout the house

• Installation of a split system for heating and cooling

• Seven solar panels, creating a 3.14kW system

“It’s a bit cliché, but the biggest thing I noticed was that I didn’t really notice –because I was comfortable, relaxed, not focused on a draught coming in. I was just comfortable,” Paul says.

He now rarely uses his gas heating and expects his bills to drop significantly. The relief of not dreading winter has been as important as the physical improvements.

Why It Matters for Co-ops

Older housing stock is common across Australia and in many CEHL co-ops. Retrofitting not only lowers energy costs but also makes homes safer and healthier – critical as climate change drives more frequent extreme weather. Supporting members through programs like this strengthens resilience and helps keep co-ops thriving.

Looking Ahead

The Retrofit Lab at the University of Melbourne recently showcased the Climate Safe Room program in its exhibition on making older homes safer and more energy efficient. This recognition highlights how innovative partnerships, like the City of Yarra’s pilot, can shape the future of housing resilience –and how co-ops are already playing a role.

You can learn more about the City of Yarra’s Climate Safe Rooms here: https://www.yarracity.vic.gov.au/ climate-and-sustainability/renewable-yarra/createall-electric-home/climate-safe-rooms

The Climate Safe Room exhibition, which was built by 3EA to demonstrate the retrofitting that can be done.

Regional Meeting Recap

Face-to-face board-to-board meetings are continuing strong, with Frankston and Rutherglen the two most recent events in August and September.

These meetings provide a valuable forum to connect directly with Directors, hear about local priorities, and discuss opportunities across the region. They are also a chance to build connections and spark collaborative solutions, as co-op directors share ideas, ask questions of CEHL Executives and Board Directors, and — of course — enjoy good food.

Spotlight on the Peninsula Region co-ops:

5 CERC

1 CMC

homes

across Melbourne’s south-east and the Peninsula

In late August, CEHL Chair Fiona Herman, Director Michael Pearce, and Managing Director Liz Thomas attended a Board-to-Board meeting in Frankston, joined by CEHL executives, staff, and Directors from four of the six regional co-ops.

CEHL’s Maintenance Co-ordinator for the region, Nick Van Der Spek, also attended. His involvement reinforced CEHL’s commitment to the Regional Service Delivery (RSD) model and the importance of co-ops having a clear line of contact to all the key functions that support them.

There was also an opportunity to highlight the Director’s Assistance Program at this meeting. Find out more about the program on the back cover of this issue.

across the Rutherglen and Shepparton region

In September CEHL staff and board members met with seven co-op directors, representing Solar City CERC, Fruit City CERC, and Glenworth CMC.

The visit also included important external engagement. CEHL met with representatives from Indigo Shire Council to showcase the role rental housing co-operatives play in the region.

We also met with Dr Helen Haines MP, Federal Member for Indi and a long-standing advocate for co-ops. Dr Haines’ offers great support raising awareness and visibility of our sector at the federal level.

Overall Reflections

Participants described the session as engaging and relevant, noting the value of hearing directly from CEHL staff and board directors and covering topics that connect to co-op operations and strategy.

When asked what the key takeaways were from the meeting, responses included:

“Getting to know some of the team members.”

“Lots to learn but looking forward to working with Kim.”

“That everything is co-ops are doing is moving in the right direction.”

When asked if there was any feedback to share, responses included:

“It would be great to get more directors to come to these events.”

“Getting together in person to hear all the information is encouraging.”

Growth in Ballarat: Stockaders CERC adds two new homes to their Co-op

Following an expression of interest process, keys to two brand new homes in the Ballarat suburb of Wendouree have been handed over to Stockaders CERC.

“We didn’t waste time when we heard about the properties, we were ready to go!” said Stockaders Secretary, Michelle Sommers.

The homes were delivered with funding assistance from Homes Victoria through the Big Housing Build Social Housing Growth Fund.

Once a single-home dwelling, the site was redeveloped to create two new two-bedroom units with a 7-star NatHERS energy rating.

Designed to stay warm in winter and cool in summer, the homes will provide greater comfort for members while also reducing energy bills. Michelle said the new homes marked the start of something new for the co-op.

“We’ve been running on 19 properties for the past 5 years, so we felt we were ready to take on more. We were sitting quite stable financially, with maintenance costings accounted for too,” Michelle said.

Long serving co-op member, Simone Kyatt - Stockader’s Maintenance Director – said the board had worked very hard for the CERC.

“Tenant selection has worked particularly well, there were a few things to consider, such as the fact that both homes are close together. We wanted to make sure both members would be compatible, and balanced this with our CERC membership,” she said.

Both co-op members have now moved in, beginning their journey as part of Stockaders CERC. CEHL warmly welcomes them!

Other developments in the pipeline:

“Homes Victoria’s Social Housing Growth Fund has identified specific funding for regional developments, and there are a number of exciting developments happening in Ballarat” said Michael Mikulic, CEHL’s Senior Development Manager (pictured above). CEHL is committed to growing regional co-op housing and has successfully secured funding for new builds in the Ballarat area, expected to be delivered in 2026.

CENTRAL BALLARAT

• Four new homes: 3 x double storey and 1 x single-storey

• All three-bedrooms

SOUTH REDAN

• Three new single storey builds

• All are two-bedrooms

CEHL CDC Sumeet Gupta, with Stockers Directors Simone Kyatt and Michelle Sommers.

Meet Dolphin CERC

Established in 1988, Dolphin CERC manages 20 properties across the Mornington Peninsula, including Frankston, Seaford, Carrum Downs, Mornington, Aspendale Gardens, and Endeavour Hills.

In recent years, Dolphin Co-op has successfully balanced renewal with growth, securing five brandnew homes through the Victorian Big Build scheme, while handing back older properties with higher maintenance costs. This shift has created more opportunities to house larger families, reduced ongoing costs and lifted morale across the co-op. For member Renee Pike, one of the first to move into a newly built home, the impact has been transformative.

“The hand-back and the new builds have meant we have more opportunity to house larger families, we’ve lowered our maintenance costs, and morale overall is much better.”

Working Through Challenges

While Dolphin has had to navigate challenges with participation and property maintenance, the co-op’s supportive culture has helped members share the load and find solutions together. The pandemic changed a lot of how Dolphin members communicate, and for the last few years the coop has held it meetings online. For their AGM and annual Christmas dinner, the co-op comes together in person.

Director Julie Walker says the co-op supports each other in many ways.

“I know I can reach out at any time, and we all have each other’s backs—whether that’s sending flowers, a card, or offering resources or support services.”

Friendship, Inclusion, and Diversity

Members describe Dolphin as a place where people of all ages and backgrounds come together, forming lasting friendships and looking out for one another. For many, living in the co-op means more than just a home—it’s belonging, connection, and reassurance during tough times.

Meeting to discuss the successful Dolphin Co-op CMC model, and the incorporation of three new homes to the co-op in July 2024. Alyce Holmes, Liz Thomas and CDC Heather Wearne (far right) meet Dolphic members Rhona and Marie and Julie (seated).

Traditions such as the annual Christmas celebration bring everyone together to share food, stories, and laughter. Even outside official meetings, members check in on each other and lend a hand when needed. Located close to the beach, Dolphin members enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, especially in summer.

Part of a Vibrant Region

Dolphin’s homes are spread across Melbourne’s south-east and the Mornington Peninsula, close to beaches, neighbourhood houses and community centres. Members describe the region as beautiful and community-minded, with some areas experiencing socio-economic pressures — making local support networks and co-op connections especially important.

Despite these challenges, members feel proud and lucky to call Dolphin home. The co-op provides more than affordable housing—it’s a network of support, connection, and community that grows stronger every year.

Looking Ahead

Dolphin Co-op is focused on growth and sustainability. The board hope to add more homes, including units and four-bedroom houses, to help accommodate members wanting to downsize and larger families. Careful member selection and open communication are seen as essential to keeping the co-op strong, resilient, and welcoming.

Congratulations to Our Co-op Speaking Competition Winner

A big thank you to everyone who entered the Co-op Speaking competition. From family favourite recipes to stunning gardens and adorable pets, your creativity and community spirit shone through.

Congratulations to this edition’s winner – Vania Kellock from Carinya CERC (pictured)who will take home a $50 gift card. Vania wowed us with her beautiful cauliflower in their backyard veggie patch.

“I made a veggie garden this year. I love silver beet and potato soup, so I planted an abundance of silver beet and some cauliflower and Dutch carrots. I love how I can walk out my door and grab fresh veggies and know that they have been looked after by myself!”

Vania Kellock also shared their Creamy Fettucine recipe (see page 18).

A heartfelt thanks to everyone who shared a glimpse of co-op life – from stories and recipes to photos that capture the spirit of our community. Special mention to Phyllis Belliappa from (pictured left) Herbert Street CMC who introduced us to her charming companion, Missy, the 14-year-old cockatiel. Phyllis told us that Missy loves whistling ‘Little Peter Rabbit’ and imitates the news readers on TV. She is very funny.

Vania’s Creamy Fettuccine

Vania Kellock, from Carinya CERC shares her go to favourite family meal.

INGREDIENTS

• ¾ pack fettuccine

• 600ml thickened cream

• 2 tsp crushed garlic

• 1 large handful diced bacon

• 2 small onions, diced

• 4-6 mushrooms, sliced

• 2-3 handfuls fresh spinach

• 1 cup sundried or cherry tomatoes, sliced

• 1–2 tbsp margarine or butter

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• Parmesan cheese, to serve (optional)

METHOD

1. Cook the base ingredients

• Heat a large frypan over medium heat.

• Sauté the diced onion until softened. Add bacon and cook until lightly golden.

• Stir in the mushrooms and cook until tender.

• Add the spinach and sun-dried (or cherry) tomatoes. Cook until the spinach wilts.

• Transfer everything to a bowl and set aside.

2. Cook the pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil.

• Cook fettuccine according to packet instructions (10–15 minutes) until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the cream sauce

• Using the same frypan, melt margarine or butter over medium heat.

• Add the crushed garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring gently.

• Pour in the thickened cream and stir continuously until it thickens slightly (about 5 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.

4. Combine everything

• Place the drained pasta into a large, deep frypan or wok.

• Pour over the cream sauce and gently toss to coat.

• Add the cooked bacon, mushroom, spinach, and tomato mixture back in.

• Mix lightly so the pasta doesn’t break.

5. Serve

• Dish into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan if desired.

• Enjoy!

Got a favourite recipe, a much-loved pet, or gardening tips to share? Send them in for the next issue of Co-operatively Speaking at engage@cehl.com.au and you could win a $50 gift card! WIN a $50 giftcard!

Herbert Street Co-op Members Build Skills for Board Roles

As part of CEHL’s Member Value Statement, CEHL supports learning and growth for members to be able to manage their co-ops. CDC Heather Wearne recently ran a hands-on workshop with ten Herbert Street CMC members on what’s involved in being a director within the Co-op Housing Program.

The session introduced the basics of co-ops, the environment they operate in, and an overview of board responsibilities — including the key roles of Secretary, Treasurer, and Chairperson. Members also received practical resources and presentation notes to support their learning. Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many saying the workshop was “very useful” for anyone considering nominating as a director.

With 92 members, Herbert Street CMC is one of the largest co-ops, and opportunities for engagement like this highlight how training is helping to build capable, confident co-op leaders.

Left: left to right – Anne Wilson, Robyn Mangan, Angelica, Denise English, Christine and Alan Jones, Roby Westbury, Brenda McLardie, Ann O’Hara, Leslie Whitiskie.

Training

The Foundation of a Thriving Co-op

Education, training, and information are key pillars of successful co‑operatives. Whether you’re a new member or a seasoned director, training helps build skills, strengthen governance, and grow a thriving co‑op community.

Why training matters Supports smooth operations and good governance

Helps members and directors understand their roles Builds stronger, more informed co‑op communities

Step 1: identify your co-op’s training needs

Before contacting your Co-op Development Coordinator (CDC), think about the areas where your co‑op could benefit most. Training topics include:

Co-op basics

What is a co op?

• History of the co operative movement

Roles & responsibilities

• Member rights and responsibilities

Governance and participation

• Sharing tasks and making decisions

Principles & rules

• Learn your co op’s rules and regulations

Understand the 7 international co op principles

Co-op Board training

Board roles: Chair, Secretary, Treasurer

• Director governance expectations

Co-op housing: more than just a roof

• Guided by co op principles

Build inclusive and connected communities

Step 2: plan your co-op

Work with your CDC to schedule training your way:

Add to a regular meeting

Book a dedicated session

Online or face to face

Peer to peer with other co‑ops

Training is an investment in your co op’s future. Start planning today!

Financial literacy

Budgeting and managing co‑op funds

• Reading financial reports

Effective meetings

• General vs Annual General Meetings

Running effective meetings and passing resolutions

Community & wellbeing

Promote diversity and inclusion

• Strengthen member connections

Legal know-how

• Co op national law & regulators

Rental provider responsibilities

• Understand the Victorian Housing Registrar

Communication & conflict resolution

• Share feedback and resolve disputes

Foster respectful dialogue

Step 3: submit your training request

Follow the link or QR code below to complete the Training Request Form OR contact your CDC.

Visit https://wkf.ms/4lb6FVB or scan the QR code

Note: only co-op directors can submit a training request.

Director Assistance Program ‘DAP’

Practical support for Directors — from conflict resolution to personal wellbeing.

Being a Co-op Director is rewarding, but it can also bring challenges. That’s why CEHL funds the Director Assistance Program (DAP). DAP is a free and confidential counselling and support service available to every Co-op Director.

Delivered by Acacia Connection, the program provides practical support with both co-op-related and personal issues. You might use it to work through a tricky conversation with a fellow Director, strengthen your communication skills, manage conflict, or advice on balancing co-op responsibilities with other pressures. Whatever the challenge, support is there when you need it.

Each Director can access three one-hour sessions every year, at no cost. Those sessions can be online, in person or over the phone – whatever feels most comfortable for you.

Access is simple and discreet: you don’t need to explain why you’re making contact, and you can choose whether to share your details. To book an appointment directly with Acacia, you’ll need a unique code.

To obtain this code, contact CEHL’s Housing Support Coordinator, Mark Dowling: markd@cehl.com.au or 0418-361-553. Mark won’t ask for details –he’ll simply provide the code so you can access the support you need.

All contacts to the Housing Support Coordinator, and all counselling sessions with Acacia are strictly private and confidential.

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

Get in touch!

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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