International Day of Cooperatives

International Day of Cooperatives History

The International Day of Cooperatives is a day dedicated to promoting and celebrating the cooperative movement globally. The day aims to encourage public awareness of cooperatives' contributions to sustainable economic growth and social development, and to recognize successful cooperatives worldwide. The celebration of the International Day of Cooperatives in Australia is supported by the National Cooperative Council (NCC). The NCC is comprised of representatives from the cooperative sector, including industry associations, federations, and individual cooperatives. The NCC aims to strengthen the cooperative movement in Australia and promote the values and benefits of cooperatives.

In Australia, the International Day of Cooperatives has been celebrated since 1923. It was initially created as a national day to recognize the significant socioeconomic impact of cooperative enterprises in the country. The day has since expanded to a global celebration, with organizations worldwide coming together to highlight the importance of cooperatives in various sectors, such as agriculture, finance, and housing.

The International Day of Cooperatives is usually celebrated with events such as conferences, workshops, and community activities. The theme for 2021 is Rebuild better together, emphasizing the role of cooperatives in post-pandemic recovery efforts. The International Day of Cooperatives is observed annually on July 1st.

International Day of Cooperatives facts

• The theme for International Day of Cooperatives in 2023 was Cooperatives: partners for accelerated sustainable development.
  The theme in 2022 was Cooperatives Build a Better World.
• Globally, 1 billion people are members of cooperatives according to the IWDC.
• According to IWDC, in 2023, there are over 30,000 cooperatives operating in every sector of the U.S. economy.
• The first cooperative society in Australia was established in 1841 by Scottish migrants in Adelaide.
• The Australian cooperative sector contributes approximately $135 billion to the Australian economy and employs over 85,000 people.

In the News and Trending in Australia for International Day of Cooperatives

Top things to do in Australia for this observance

• Explore upcoming events near you. The International Cooperative Alliance hosts events that focus on community and societal growth.
• Watch the UN's 2020 International Day of Cooperatives video if you missed it. The video focuses on cooperative solutions that can help lower the risks of climate change.
• Engage with local farming, arts or community cooperatives. In regions like New South Wales and Victoria, there are many agricultural cooperatives where you can find local produce or learn more about the cooperative model.
• Consider becoming a member of a community cooperative, housing cooperative, or a member-owned financial institution like an Australian credit union or mutual bank, as a way to support the cooperative movement in Australia.