The Earthworker initiative in Melbourne has stimulated recent Australian interest in worker co-operatives. Worker co-operatives are a form of economic democracy that provides a direct way for workers to control their production and shape the economy.
The co-operative principle of one vote for each member applies. Worker members participate in co-operative management. Earthworker is however not a worker co-operative. It is a co-operative network or auxiliary that promotes worker co-operative development.
Trade unions and environmental groups formed it to find a space to discuss job creation and the environment. Earthworker encourages worker co-operatives based on sustainable manufacturing. It promotes the payment of trade union wage rates and conditions. It aims to build a network where co-operatives support each other and build economies of scale.
Earthworker has established several co-operatives.
- The Earthworker Energy Manufacturing Co-operative is in the Latrobe Valley at Morwell. It assists worker transition in a coal mining and power region to more sustainable jobs. It manufactures water tanks and solar hot water systems.
- The Redgum Cleaning Co-operative in Melbourne provided green cleaning services.
- The Earthworker Construction Co-operative provides residential construction, landscaping and maintenance services.
- The Earthworker Smart Energy Co-operative helps households improve thermal efficiency and comfort.
Earthworker is an active promoter of other co-operatives. The Hope Co-operative supports young asylum seekers. It helps them complete their education and move into sustainable employment. Earthworker has faced challenges. These include skill shortages, seasonal demand and difficulties with capital raising with the Redgum Cleaning ended its business in 2023.
Despite these setbacks, the Earthworker Energy Manufacturing Co-operative has increased turnover. It survives in a competitive market with demand for its high-quality Australian made product despite its cost. Earthworker provides the future for Australian worker co-operatives. Its emphasis on building a worker co-operative network and sustainability is a promising path.
For further information, read Worker co-operatives in Australia 1833–2024.