At CEHL, co-operative values shape our communities and guide our governance. Our structure is unique: a not-for-profit housing association where member co-ops hold shares, vote at the AGM and elect Directors to the CEHL Board. This model ensures that those who live in co-op housing have a voice in shaping decisions that affect the future of co-operative housing in Victoria.
For Elected Directors Joseph (Joe) and Beth, that seat signifies more than governance. It encompasses representation, responsibility, and the assurance that real-life co-op experience informs decisions at the highest level. Their leadership embodies what makes CEHL’s model distinctive – and what positions them as icons of co-operative housing.
“You’re helping shape the future of co-op housing”
With over 30 years of experience in co-operative housing, Joe understands firsthand the power of a stable, community-led home. As a long-time member of St Euphrasia’s CERC in Carlton, he has witnessed the housing landscape shift dramatically, with soaring prices and shrinking affordable options. However, co-op housing, he says, has kept him connected and secure.
“It’s given me stability, affordability and a real sense of community, without it, I wouldn’t still be living in Carlton.”
– Joseph Montero, Co-op Elected Director
His leadership journey began within his co-op, where he joined member-led working groups and saw how change can happen from within. “People encouraged me to run for the Board – and I realised I could make a difference.”
As a CEHL Elected Director, Joseph has played an active role in shaping strategy and promoting co-op voices at the board level. He is also a member of the Finance Committee, where he brings both lived experience and a strong sense of accountability. Joseph is particularly passionate about encouraging other members to assume leadership roles. His advice to potential board members is straightforward yet invaluable.
“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.”
“I started asking, ‘How does this affect co-op members?”
Beth came to the Board with a deep commitment to co-operative values – and a willingness to learn. Initially uncertain about her skills, she soon realised that her lived experience in co-op housing brought vital insight.
“I used to think you had to be an expert to sit on a board. But I’ve learned that co-op experience, combined with a willingness to grow, is just as powerful.”
– Beth Rundle, Co-op Elected Director
Beth found the early adjustment to board processes challenging. “At first, it felt like a different world – full of reports, policies and financial discussions,” she recalls. “But I asked questions, leaned on support and found my voice.”
That support came in part through CEHL’s mentoring programme, which pairs elected directors with technical directors – professionals who possess expertise in governance and housing. This partnership strengthens CEHL’s governance model by combining lived experience with technical insight to ensure balanced, informed decision-making.
Beth credits mentorship with helping her navigate the complexity and grow her confidence. “Having someone guide you makes a huge difference. It reminded me that my perspective matters – and that speaking up is part of the role.”
Leadership rooted in community.
Joe and Beth reflect what’s at the heart of CEHL’s governance model: co-op members leading with integrity, insight and a deep understanding of what matters most to communities. Their voices ensure decisions are grounded in lived experience and aligned with the values of the co-operative movement.
As Joe puts it, “It’s one thing to read a report about co-ops. It’s another to live it every day for 30 years. That experience matters.”
Beth agrees. “You don’t need to be an expert to lead – you just need to care, listen and be willing to grow. That’s what makes co-op leadership so powerful.”
Co-op housing icons aren’t defined by titles – they’re defined by commitment, community and a shared vision for a better, fairer housing future. Joe and Beth embody exactly that in their roles on the CEHL Board.
