Empowering First Nations communities through co-operatives
4 June 2025 1 min read
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander viewers should be aware that the following content includes images and names of people who are deceased.
Co-operatives have a rich history of supporting First Nations Australians, from Tranby Aboriginal College, founded in 1958, to providing essential services in remote communities today.
First Nations co-ops are critical in delivering healthcare, education and financial services, enhancing community self-sufficiency and strengthening culture.
The ongoing growth of these co-operatives highlights the potential of co-ops to foster long-lasting, impactful support for First Nations communities in Australia.
The late Roderick Randall, founding chair of Nungera Co-operative Society, the late Joyce Clague MBE, founding secretary/manager of Nungera Co-op, and Wallace Randall (tugboat driver) who is still a Director of Nungera Co-op. The tugboat, acquired from CSR Ltd when it moved to road transportation, was used when farming was re-established on Ulgundahi Island in 1975 (Source Building a Better Australia)The Traditional Credit Union brings banking services to remote Indigenous communities (Source Building a Better Australia) BCCM CEO Melina Morrison, Pastor Ray Minniecon, Director, Bunji Consultancies, Dr Belinda Russon, CEO Tranby Aboriginal Co-Operative Limited, Mary Nirlungayuk, Vice President Corporate Services, Arctic Co-operatives Ltd (Canada) and Linda Seaborn, Senior Policy Adviser BCCM
Agricultural co-operatives have long been pillars of rural Australia, supporting farmers in marketing and processing their produce. Beginning in the 1880s with […]
In 2012, Teachers Credit Union officially became Teachers Mutual Bank. The journey from credit union to mutual bank reflects Teachers Mutual Bank's commitment to its core values while reinvesting its profits for the bank’s growth.
Marilyn found housing security after years in private rentals and years of lease terminations. She moved into Ningana housing co-operative in June 2024 and hasn't looked back.
