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What is the Co‑operative Housing Model?
Co‑operative housing is a proven approach to creating strong, sustainable communities. Across the world, co‑ops are well established and highly successful—so much so that in some cities, they make up nearly 40% of all housing. Here in Australia, interest in co‑operative living continues to grow. More than 8,000 people already call a housing co‑operative home, and that number is steadily increasing. Why? Because co‑operative housing works. Residents consistently report higher satisfaction than in other housing models. It’s empowering, inclusive, and designed to support people of all ages, backgrounds, and circumstances. Co‑ops offer stability, affordability, and the sense of belonging that comes from being part of a connected, supportive community.
Co‑operative housing takes many forms — units, standalone homes, small villages, shared spaces, rooftop gardens, and innovative architectural designs. Some members own, some part‑own, and others rent. The diversity of the model reflects the diversity of the people who choose it.
As Australia’s housing market becomes increasingly challenging, more people are seeking alternatives. Those on low incomes, those on moderate incomes, older Australians, people with disability, vulnerable groups, and anyone simply wanting a stronger sense of community are looking for better options. Co‑operative housing offers that alternative.
Housing co‑ops are intentional, engaged communities where members work together—selecting new members, making local decisions, maintaining their homes, learning new skills, and contributing to the wellbeing of the group. In return, members benefit from secure tenure, reduced housing costs, genuine control over their living environment, and the shared responsibility of self‑management.
In NSW, all co‑operative housing properties are owned or leased by Common Equity. Responsibility for the homes is shared between Common Equity and the individual co‑ops, ensuring strong governance and long‑term sustainability. Co‑operatives are formal legal entities that exist to protect the rights and interests of their members. They operate according to seven internationally recognised principles: - Voluntary and open membership - Democratic member control - Member economic participation - Autonomy and independence - Education, training and information - Co‑operation among co‑operatives - Concern for the community Common Equity is the peak body for co‑operative housing in NSW. We support existing co‑ops, help establish new ones, and lead innovation in affordable housing. We demonstrate how co‑operative models reduce costs, strengthen communities, and create resilient, people‑centered housing solutions.
Common Equity. (n.d.). The Co‑operative Housing Model. Retrieved from https://www.commonequity.com.au/housing/model/// Co‑operative Principles In a housing co‑operative, tenants play an active role in shaping how their community functions. Members work collectively to set the rules, guide decision‑making, and ensure the co‑operative runs in a fair, transparent, and inclusive way. To support this shared responsibility, co‑operatives follow a set of internationally recognised principles that reflect the values of collaboration, equality, and community benefit. The Seven Principles of Co‑operation * Voluntary and Open Membership – Everyone eligible is welcome to join without discrimination. * Democratic Member Control – Members participate in decision‑making and have an equal voice. * Member Economic Participation – Members contribute to and democratically manage the co‑operative’s financial resources. * Autonomy and Independence – Co‑operatives remain self‑governing and free from external control. * Education, Training and Information – Members are supported with learning opportunities to participate effectively. * Co‑operation Among Co‑operatives – Co‑operatives work together to strengthen the broader movement. * Concern for Community – Co‑operatives prioritise the wellbeing and sustainable development of their communities. Common Equity. (n.d.). The Co‑operative Housing Model. Retrieved from https://www.commonequity.com.au/housing/principles////