We are pleased to release the updated snapshot of Australia’s Cooperatives and Mutual Enterprises (CMEs) sector. Produced under the ICA-EU Partnership Programme (#Coops4Dev) phase 2, the new report offers a comprehensive overview of the size, scope, and impact of the sector, which continues to play a vital role in shaping Australia’s social and economic landscape.

Australia is home to 1,819 active CMEs, including 1,467 cooperatives, with a combined membership of over 34.8 million. The sector contributes an estimated 7 to 8 percent of the national GDP, generating turnover of more than USD 71 billion annually. This robust economic footprint is matched by strong policy support, including the Co-operatives National Law (CNL), the Mutuals Act, and a dedicated AUD 7 million federal fund to strengthen care cooperatives.

The snapshot also highlights Australia’s global leadership in measurement and learning. Tools like the Mutual Value Measurement (MVM) framework and the active role of Australian CMEs in international cooperative governance, including the ICA Board, demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and knowledge sharing.

The report features inspiring case studies that reflect the diversity, innovation, and community impact of Australian CMEs. Backed by the Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals (BCCM), Australia’s apex body for CMEs, the sector is a stronghold of innovation, inclusion, and sustainability. Read the full snapshot here.