Co-operative Communities Project

Banner for the 'Co-operative Communities' program, an AFDO initiative. The banner features a stylised circular logo made up of abstract figures holding hands, representing community and inclusion. Text reads: “CO-OPERATIVE COMMUNITIES, an AFDO Initiative. Turn What You Love Into a Business – Let’s Build it Together with Community Support.” On the right side, there is an image of a woman sitting in a chair talking to a man in a wheelchair, both smiling and engaged in conversation.

Please note the Co-operative Communities Project has concluded. If you have any further questions, please email projects@afdo.org.au

The Co-operative Communities Project was a 12-month initiative led by AFDO (Australian Federation of Disability Organisations) in partnership with The Co-op Federation, aimed at creating new pathways to meaningful employment and social inclusion for people with disability.

This project supported three groups of people with disability to co-design, develop, and launch their own co-operative businesses in areas such as art, design, baking, lawn care, gardening or whatever their passion may be. These businesses will be built around a community model inspired by Microboards – small, supportive networks formed to help individuals live fulfilling lives. 

The benefits of meaningful employment can include increased social participation, financial independence, improved identity formation, self-confidence, improved mental health and community contribution.  

Participants will receive guidance from a dedicated group of mentors, matched to support each co-op based on their business focus. The project is funded by a philanthropic foundation and is a groundbreaking initiative, aiming to demonstrate the potential of peer-led, disability-driven economic models. 

The project will culminate in a publicly accessible “How-To Blueprint”, capturing key learnings and practical guidance to enable replication across the sector. This blueprint will serve as a foundation for a future AFDO social enterprise, designed to scale community-driven, disability-led employment models nationally. 

 Key Goals 

  • Support people with disability to launch co-operative businesses 
  • Promote inclusive, peer-led employment opportunities 
  • Build community and social connection through Microboard-inspired models 
  • Document and share learnings for national replication 
  • Lay the groundwork for a scalable social enterprise 

 

Ready to turn your passion into a business? Join the Co-operative Communities Project and build something meaningful with the support of mentors, teammates, and a community that believes in you. Learn more.

Are you ready to inspire change and share your expertise? Join the Co-operative Communities Project as a mentor and help people with disability turn their passions into thriving co-operative businesses. Learn more.

 

Logo for the Australian Federation of Disability Organisations

The Australian Federation of Disability Organisations (AFDO) is a Disabled People’s Organisation (DPO).  We are a cross-disability representative organisation, and the national voice representing people with disability in Australia. Our members are national and state disability advocacy organisations run by and for people with disability and their families, representing Australians with disability. 

 

Co-op Federation Logo

The Co-op Federation advocates for the co-operative sector; raises public awareness; provides education, resources and networking opportunities; assists in the formation of co-operatives and like entities; and maintains links with other organisations interstate, nationally and internationally. 

 

 

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