Strengthening Australia’s Mutual Economy
Member-owned enterprises support competition, resilience and long-term value.
Australia’s co-operative and mutual sector supports millions of members and operates across essential industries. This report explains how member-owned enterprises strengthen competition, invest for the long term and create value for communities.
13 October 2026
Key findings
1
37.8 million+ active memberships
Australia’s co-operatives and mutuals have more than 37.8 million combined active memberships across essential industries and community services.
2
$2.08 trillion in combined assets
The mutual economy manages $2.08 trillion in combined assets, including assets held by Australia’s superannuation funds.
3
Approximately 95,000 people employed
Co-operatives and mutuals directly employ approximately 95,000 people across sectors including finance, health, agriculture, retail and motoring.
Why this matters
Co-operatives and mutuals provide essential services, increase consumer choice and create long-term value for members and communities.
However, policy settings do not always recognise their distinct structure, limiting opportunities for member-owned organisations to compete, grow and support underserved markets.
