Australian Co-operative Housing Alliance (ACHA)

🏘️ Could co-ops be part of the housing affordability solution? With rental prices skyrocketing 48% in just five years - far outpacing income growth - it’s no wonder Australians are looking for better, fairer housing options. Housing co-operatives offer just that. Last week on Life Matters (ABC Radio National), ACHA Chair Liz Thomas joined Professor Wendy Stone and co-op tenant member Kylie to discuss how co-operative housing is providing genuine affordability, security, and community connection - and how it could scale to become a vital part of Australia's housing future. Kylie, a single mum, shared how moving into a co-op has been life-changing. She said, “Private rental felt lonely. Now I have a home, a community, and room to breathe.” Wendy highlighted the power of co-ops to deliver long-term social and economic benefits, while Liz made a compelling case for government investment to grow co-op housing from less than 1% of the social housing market to 10%. 📢  ACHA is calling for dedicated funding to support more people like Kylie and create thriving, sustainable co-op communities across the country. #CoopHousing #HousingAffordability #ACHA #CommunityHousing #SocialHousing #LiveBetterTogether #CoopsWork https://lnkd.in/gesrsDE4

🌍 In 2025, the United Nations declared the second International Year of Cooperatives, celebrating the transformative power of over three million member-owned businesses around the world. In New South Wales, ACHA member Common Equity NSW is part of this proud legacy — a co-operative housing provider that goes beyond bricks and mortar to build connected, empowered communities. For nearly 200 years, co-operatives and mutuals in NSW have served members, shaped neighbourhoods, and created lasting social impact. Common Equity NSW is a shining example of how co-operative values continue to drive inclusive, community-led housing solutions in today’s world. #IYC2025 #CooperativeHousing #CommonEquityNSW #MemberOwned #HousingSolutions #ACHA #CooperativeImpact #UN2025 https://lnkd.in/gk7U5ppP

What a way to kick-off the BCCM International Year of Co-operatives Icons campaign with a breakfast hosted by NRMA at NSW Parliament House. What an amazing, vibrant sector we have! Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals (BCCM) Liz Thomas Australian Co-operative Housing Alliance (ACHA) Nick Sabel Lisa Wilson Whatley Lisa Danker Image: Michael Pilbrow (Director & Chair, Strategic Development Group), Liz Thomas (CEO, CEHL & Chair, ACHA), Nick Sabel (CEO, CENSW), Lisa Danker (Chair CENSW)

This morning, Liz Thomas spoke at the Co-op Assembly 2025 in Sydney, Australia. Focusing on the important role housing co-operatives play in Australia and ACHA’s goal of securing 10% of Australia’s social housing as co-op housing. Under the global theme “Co-operatives Build a Better World,” IYC2025 recognises the critical role co-operatives play in creating sustainable, resilient communities. The UN has once again acknowledged that co-operatives are essential partners in addressing global challenges and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. As a champion of co-operative housing in Australia, ACHA is privileged to celebrate this milestone alongside co-ops worldwide. We join the movement in raising awareness, fostering innovation, and advocating for policies that enable co-operatives to thrive. IYC2025 is an opportunity to: ✅ Highlight the impact of co-operatives in sustainable development ✅ Strengthen the movement through capacity-building and partnerships ✅ Champion supportive policies for co-op innovation and entrepreneurship ✅ Inspire the next generation to shape a more inclusive future #IYC2025 #Cooperatives #BuildingABetterWorld #SustainableCommunities #CoopHousing

Canadians see co-ops as part of the solution to the housing crisis 🇨🇦🏡 A new report by Abacus Data commissioned by Canada’s Cooperative Housing Federation (CHF Canada), reveals that 73% of Canadians see co-operative and non-profit housing as a viable solution to the housing crisis. Yet, 60% of respondents say there aren’t enough co-op and non-profit housing options in their communities. 🇨🇦 With over 2,200 housing co-ops providing homes for 250,000 people across Canada, it’s clear that co-operative housing is an essential part of the housing solution. As CHF says: “It’s time to build.” 🔎 What are your thoughts on these findings? How can Australia learn from Canada’s approach to co-op housing? Let’s start the conversation! Read the The Coop News article by Anca Voinea here: https://lnkd.in/e67HAGFr #CooperativeHousing #HousingSolutions #AffordableHousing #CommunityLiving #ACHA #Coops

Talking Co-op Housing on ABC Life Matters 🎙️🏡 Yesterday morning on Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) Life Matters, Common Equity Housing Limited (CEHL) Managing Director and ACHA Chair Liz Thomas, Merri Housing Co-op member Kylie, and Professor Wendy Stone came together to discuss the growing momentum behind co-operative housing in Australia. Kylie shared her personal experience of finding stability and community in a co-op, Wendy provided key insights from her housing policy research, and Liz outlined a vision for a more affordable and sustainable housing future. Catch the conversation and explore how co-op housing is shaping new opportunities for secure, community-led living. 👇 https://lnkd.in/gbjKWsY5

Well done to ACHA Chair Liz Thomas for championing for increased funding for rental housing co-ops on Radio National’s Life Matters this morning! A great way to start the week, advocating for the vital role co-ops play in providing secure, affordable housing. #CoopHousing #AffordableHomes

Thank you, Co-operative Housing International, for sharing Australia's co-op housing history from our website! 🇦🇺🏡 It’s great to see the rich legacy of co-operative housing in Australia recognised on a global stage. Co-ops have played a vital role in providing affordable, community-driven housing solutions in Australia, and we’re proud to be part of this ongoing story. #CooperativeHousing #CommunityLiving #CoopsWork"

The International Year of Cooperatives 2025 is a chance to bring global attention to the power of cooperation in housing. From providing affordable homes to strengthening local economies, housing coops are making a difference. Support the movement by sharing your experiences and engaging with our upcoming initiatives. #IYC2025 #CoopHousing

A huge shoutout to the team at the Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada for driving forward the Co-operative Housing Development Program - a game-changing investment in co-op housing. This bold initiative is an inspiration for Australia, demonstrating the power of co-operatives in delivering affordable, sustainable housing. Let’s continue our push for 10% here in Australia! 💪🏡 #CooperativeHousing #HousingForAll #Canada #Australia #AffordableHousing #CommunityLed