Co-operatively Speaking - March 2026

SPEAKING

Issue Twenty Three | MARCH 2026

Bendigo Directors Connect

Five co-operative directors from across the Bendigo region recently met for coffee to connect and share updates.

Discussion covered key operational priorities including arrears management, the VCAT process, study grant opportunities for members, and preparations for the 2026 Annual Rent Review.

The catch-up also included recognition of Anette Mueller, who was presented with flowers following her nomination to the CEHL Honour Board. Anette has contributed to Eyrie CERC and the wider Bendigo co-operative community for nearly two decades, providing consistent leadership and support.

The gathering highlighted the value of strong working relationships in supporting co-operative housing across the region.

See page 5 for the Shepparton Directors catch up.

years of community & co-operation

Directors Connecting

Eliza Brierly Awards Launch

Celebrating 40 Years of Community & Connection

Renee of Dolphin CMC tranforms her garden

Meet Co-op Elected Director Skye Egan

Meet the 2026 Study Grants Recipients

Jay Aggarwal of Wyndham CERC updates us on the CCA Review

Property Development

Pipeline

Community Housing

Retrofitting Program

Meet CEHL Property Officer Craig Derbyshire

Maintenance Update

Message from CHAIRPERSON & MANAGING DIRECTOR

Fiona Herman & Liz Thomas

CEHL

of community & co-operation COMMON EQUITY HOUSING LTD

Celebrating 40 Years of Co operation and Community

For four decades, CEHL has worked alongside co op members to create secure, affordable homes and strong, connected communities. Our 40th anniversary logo – 40 Years of Co-operation and Community - reflects the values that have guided CEHL since the beginning and continue to shape our work today.

COMMON EQUITY HOUSING LTD

More than just housing

of community & co-operation

COMMON EQUITY HOUSING LTD

This anniversary is a moment to look back at what we have built together - a community of communities based on shared responsibility, participation and fairness. Over the years, co op members, boards, CEHL board directors and staff have shown the power of working together. Our history is one of collaboration, resilience and a firm belief that housing should put people first.

Just as importantly, this milestone invites us to look ahead. As we celebrate the past, we also renew our shared purpose and our commitment to co operative housing into the future. Throughout 2026, there will be opportunities to celebrate together, share stories, and reflect on how we carry the co-op housing model forward, ensuring it remains responsive, strong, and values-led for the next generation.

Shaping CEHL’s Future Direction

Planning for the future is already underway. The Board has begun work on CEHL’s 2027–2030 Strategic Plan, which will guide CEHL’s decision making, investment and advocacy over the next three years.

Elected co op directors play an important role in this work. They bring the experience and perspectives of co op members to the Board table and help shape long term priorities. Working alongside independent technical directors, elected directors test ideas, ask important questions and help ensure CEHL remains focused on safe, sustainable housing and strong co operative values.

Investing in Members

The 2026 CEHL Study Grants have been awarded, and we are pleased to introduce the recipients in this edition. The grants reflect CEHL’s strong commitment to the co-op principle of education, training and information, supporting confident members, capable directors and sustainable co-operatives. March also marks the launch of the Eliza Brierley Awards, with up to $5,000 available to support women’s leadership and participation across the CEHL network. See page 4 for details.

Welcoming New Directors

We warmly welcome Skye Egan, elected as Co op Elected Director at the 2025 AGM. You can read more about Skye on page 9 of this edition.

We also welcome Sean Hughes, who has joined the Board as an Independent Technical Director. Sean brings more than 25 years of senior leadership experience across legal, governance and regulatory roles in Australia and New Zealand, strengthening the Board’s expertise in audit, risk and accountability. More information about Sean and profiles of CEHL Board Directors is available on the CEHL website: https://cehl.com.au/our-board/

Staying Connected: Board to Board Meetings

The 2026 Regional Board to Board meetings are underway. These sessions bring together CEHL Directors, executive staff, and co-op board members to share updates, discuss local issues, and strengthen relationships. They also provide an opportunity for co op directors across regions to learn from one another and build shared understanding.

CEHL Board Report - Safety and Planning for the Future

Member safety remains a top priority. The Board continues to closely monitor progress on gas, electrical and smoke alarm safety checks across CEHL owned properties and has directed CEHL staff to take a more active role in organising outstanding checks where needed.

The Board continues to contribute to the development of the next Co operative Management Agreement (CCA). Key Board principles include:

• Clear responsibilities between CEHL and co ops

• Strong planning for maintenance and safety

• Transparent dispute resolution

• Long term stability for the program

The Board is committed to respectful, constructive engagement with co ops as the work on the CCA that will guide the next steps in CEHL’s future progresses.

Finally, as we commence our 40th year of operation, thank you to all co op members for your continued engagement with the CEHL Co-op Housing Program. Your contribution remains central to the success of our unique housing model.

In co-operation

ZERO TOLERANCE

for abusive or aggressive behaviour towards CEHL employees

CEHL is a rental provider committed to providing excellent service to its renters.

CEHL must also provide our employees with a psychologically and physically safe workplace. The wellbeing of our team members is paramount. CEHL has zero tolerance for intimidating, abusive, threatening or aggressive language or behaviour towards our team or anyone in our workplace.

Our team will always treat you with courtesy and respect. In return, if you are working with our team members, we ask you to treat them the same way.

Any renter who verbally or physically intimidates, abuses or threatens any member of our team, in person, in writing or over the telephone, will be provided with a first and final written warning advising that the behaviour will not be tolerated.

Any future violation may result in CEHL having to decline to work directly with the renter, in person or over the phone. Interaction will be limited to written communication.

ELIZA BRIERLEY AWARDS

Celebrating International Women’s Day with the launch of the CEHL Eliza Brierley Awards

Honouring a Co op Pioneer, Investing in Co-op Leadership

Each March, International Women’s Day invites us to recognise women’s contributions and recommit to gender equality. It is fitting, then, that CEHL is launching the Eliza Brierley Awards in March - celebrating women’s leadership, participation and influence within co operative housing.

In 1846, Eliza Brierley paid her membership fee and became the first woman to join the Rochdale Pioneers Co-op. In doing so, she claimed something powerful for her time: a voice, a vote and a place in a democratic movement. The Eliza Brierley Awards honour that legacy by supporting women today to step forward, build confidence and strengthen leadership within their co-ops and across the CEHL network.

Thanks to a generous anonymous donation, the Awards are open to women connected to the CEHL co-operative housing network who want to grow their skills, explore leadership, or contribute to stronger co op communities.

What can the Award support?

The Eliza Brierley Award is flexible and designed to meet women where they are. You don’t need to be an experienced leader or have a formal role to apply.

Funds can support individual leadership journeys, such as:

• Leadership, governance or skills building courses

• Mentoring or coaching

• Learning new skills such as facilitation, confidence building, financial literacy or community engagement

• Attending conferences, forums or events linked to co-operative housing or social justice

The Award can also support collective benefits for co-ops, including:

• Running workshops or training for co-op members

• Developing shared tools or resources that strengthen participation and decision making

• Creating learning or connection opportunities across co-ops

• Piloting initiatives that encourage women’s involvement and leadership within co-ops

Applicants are encouraged to show how their idea reflects co-operative values and helps build stronger, more inclusive communities — whether through personal growth, collective impact, or both.

Awards of up to $5,000 available

Is this Award for you?

If you’ve ever thought, “I’d like to be more involved, but I’m not sure where to start”, this Award is for you.

If you have an idea that could benefit your co op or the broader CEHL co-op community, this Award can help make it happen.

If you’re already contributing and want to grow your confidence, skills or impact, we encourage you to apply.

We warmly invite women across the CEHL network to put their hand up - alone or in collaboration with others - and be part of shaping the future of co-operative housing.

How to apply

To request an application form, or to find out more about the Awards, please email Ximena at ximena. czaja@cehl.com.au

NOTICE BOARD

WHAT IS HAPPENING

Saturday 21 March

Thursday–Friday 26–27 March

Thursday–Friday 9–10 April

Tuesday 14 April

Thursday 16 April

Thursday–Friday 23–24 April

Thursday 14 May

Thursday 21 May

Wednesday–Thursday 3–4 June

Tuesday 9 June

1 – 13 June 2026

Thursday 11 June

Tuesday 14 July

Saturday 27 June

Wednesday 29 July

CCA Working Group In Person Meeting

Board-to-Board (B2B) – Ballarat

Board-to-Board (B2B) – Gippsland, Traralgon

New Applicant Sessions (10 am and 6 pm)

Board-to-Board (B2B) – Metro South East, Lakewood

Board-to-Board (B2B) – Shepparton

Board-to-Board (B2B) – Peninsula, Rosebud

Board-to-Board (B2B) – Geelong

Board-to-Board (B2B) – Bendigo

Board-to-Board (B2B) – All regions, Online

ACHA Canadian Co-op Housing Study Tour For details visit: acha.coop/acha-delegation-to-canada

Board-to-Board (B2B) – All regions, Online

New Applicant Sessions (10 am and 6 pm)

CEHL Co-op Board Directors Forum – Melbourne CBD (venue TBC)

Board-to-Board (B2B) – Mildura

Thursday 24 September 2026 Co-operative Housing Summit - Sydney

Tuesday 13 October

New Applicant Sessions (10 am and 6 pm)

Shepparton Directors Connect

Maria from Goulburn Valley CERC recently brought together from Shepparton-Fruit City and Solar City co-ops for a shared catch-up over a meal. The gathering was co-op led and full of warmth, laughter and stories, with conversations flowing about connection to the region, family and what makes each co-op unique. Discussions also covered ideas around active membership, meetings, and vacancies, with everyone expressing appreciation for the opportunity to share insights and feel supported by one another. Kim RattrayWood, Community Development Coordinator for the Bendigo and Shepparton region, was also invited to attend.

Many reflected on how friends sometimes ask why they dedicate so much time to co-op work, but being among fellow directors who understand the purpose and passion behind was both validating and uplifting.

Bendigo – Rainbow 8 CERC Directors Strengthen Governance

Rainbow 8 CERC recently also welcomed CDC Kim, to a directors’ meeting to explore the role of directors and how they can work effectively together to support strong governance of their co-op. Kim shared how encouraging it was to see the enthusiasm around the table. Directors asked plenty of thoughtful questions — especially “Why do we do this?” — sparking meaningful discussion about the purpose behind governance requirements and how they help guide the co-op as a business.

The session provided valuable clarity around director responsibilities and highlighted the importance of working collaboratively to ensure the co-operative continues to thrive. As a result of the discussion, the group has also planned a series of governance training sessions to be delivered over the next few meetings.

YEARS of community & co-operation

CEHL

COMMON EQUITY HOUSING LTD

COMMON EQUITY HOUSING LTD

More than just housing

COMMON EQUITY HOUSING LTD of community & co-operation

A logo to celebrate 40 years of community & co-operation

In 2026, we mark 40 years of CEHL supporting housing co-ops and co-op communities.

The anniversary is more than a milestone. It reflects four decades of CEHL and co-op communities working together - driven by our shared belief that everyone deserves secure and affordable housing.

Since 1986, strong foundations have been built by co-op members and supporters who believed housing could be done differently, with co-operation at its heart.

The 40 year logo will appear across CEHL events and communications in 2026 as we celebrate what we’ve achieved together and look ahead to the future we are continuing to build for the next generation of co-op members.

MEMBER STORIES

A Little Garden, A Big Transformation

Renee of Dolphin CMC has transformed her garden into a vibrant and welcoming space that reflects care, creativity and a clear sense of vision. What was once an ordinary outdoor area is now a thoughtfully designed garden, full of colour, structure and personality.

Renee sent Co-operatively Speaking photos of her new space as well as this story to share:

“I absolutely adore my home and am grateful for it every day. While I don’t have a lot of outdoor space, what I do have gets very little sun - and with two large fur babies racing up and down, establishing a lush lawn has always been a challenge! With limited means (and even more limited gardening skills), I decided to think simply and make the most of what I had. The result is a small but meaningful transformation that I’m pretty proud of. What was once a space I only ventured into when I had to has now become a little retreat - somewhere I can sit with a cuppa and a book and genuinely enjoy being outside.

It’s a reminder that even small changes can make a big difference, and that creating a space that feels like home doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive - just thoughtful and personal.”

BOARD SPOTLIGHT

Meet Co-op Elected Director - Skye Egan

Strong co-operatives are built on strong member voices, and our newest Co-op Elected Board Director, Skye Egan brings both lived experience and a deep commitment to community into her role.

Her journey into co-operative leadership began at her own co-op, where serving on the board showed her firsthand the power of member-led decisionmaking. Nominated for the CEHL Board, Skye was driven by a passion for advocating for stable housing for people who need it most. As an elected director, she is excited to bring a fresh perspective and a strong commitment to ensuring that member voices

“Member leadership is at the heart of everything we do.”

Growing up in public housing for much of her childhood and later studying and working in the community services sector has given her a deep and personal understanding of the challenges many co-op members face. This lived experience shapes how she approaches board decisions - with empathy, practicality, and a strong focus on real outcomes for the wider CEHL community.

“I understand the challenges because I’ve lived them.”

As part of her role, Skye is looking forward to participating in the mentoring program with a Technical Director. This opportunity will allow her to learn from industry professionals, particularly in the areas of compliance, governance, and member relations. Skye sees this as an important step in strengthening her ability to contribute to the Board and better support the co-operative network.

“Learning from industry professionals will help me make a stronger contribution.”

She believes co-operative housing is unique because it gives members greater choice and control over how they manage their homes, maintenance, and daily lives. Memberled co-operatives not only provide stable housing but also empower people to reduce pressures in other areas of life, creating space for personal growth and stronger communities.

“Stable housing opens the door to positive change.”

2026 STUDY GRANT RECIPIENTS

The 2026 Study Grants have now been awarded, continuing a long-standing commitment to the co-operative principle of education, training and empowerment.

Each year, these grants recognise the dedication and aspirations of co-op members and their households, supporting study pathways that strengthen individuals, families and co-operative communities alike. Since 2010, more than 100 co-op members and their families have received a Study Grant, helping with everything from first qualifications to further study and career development. Each year, $20,000 is made available to support eligible study, with funding awarded based on the strength of applications received and open to any CEHL co-op member or household member undertaking approved education or training.

Let’s meet the recipients:

Ashleigh Beard Lakewood CMC

Diploma of Governance

“CEHL has given me a home and a purpose and I hope to one day give back to them by joining the CEHL Board. I feel that completing the Diploma of Governance will give me the necessary skills and knowledge to better help not only my community at Lakewood but eventually CEHL as a whole. I am very thankful to CEHL for honouring me with the study grant which will go towards the cost of my Diploma so I can achieve my dreams.”

Hayley Griffiths Southerners CERC

Cert III School-Based Education Support

“As a single mother, receiving this study grant means more than words can express. Your generosity eases the financial strain of returning to study and strengthens my determination to build a better future for my family. Thank you for believing in my potential and investing in my education.”

Kylie Lawson

Merri CERC

Cert IV in Doula Support Services

“Thanks to CEHL for awarding me a $2000 study grant!

It’s a huge boost as I work towards my Cert IV as a birth support worker and Doula with the Womb to Tomb Foundation. This path is my passion, and having the financial support means I can really focus my energy on my studies and finish my qualification sooner. I’m really looking forward to using these skills to support women and families in the community, and I appreciate the backing of CEHL to make that happen.”

Jaspar Gibson

Charlotte Kavanagh-Baker

Lakewood CMC

Diploma of Health Science

“I’m incredibly grateful for this grant and the belief it represents.

My own journey showed me how difficult it can be to find support that truly understands individual needs. This support helps with practical things like travel and textbooks, but more importantly, it allows me to keep moving forward toward becoming a dietitian who gives back to the bariatric community with compassion, understanding, and a holistic approach to care.”

Earth CERC Bachelor of Biological Sciences

Nicole Holt

Geelong West CERC

Bachelor of Arts

“After 12 years on the CEHL waitlist, receiving our forever home in the Geelong West CERC has been life-changing. Being part of a co-op isn’t just about affordable housing; it’s about belonging, stability, and true community.

This study grant means so much to me. As I continue my Bachelor of Arts at Deakin University, it allows me to keep learning and developing skills I can bring back to strengthen our co-op and support others. I’m incredibly grateful to CEHL for investing in members like me and helping build opportunities not just for our families today, but for future generations.”

“This grant has supplied me with funds to further my involvement and education in ecology and conservation, and increased my resolve in choosing this path. Learning on location is important in these fields, and expenses relating to cars and travel can be burdensome. Using this grant to help with such expenses will facilitate more mobility which will enhance my understanding of my field and support assignments, field trips, jobs relevant to my future career and volunteering. All of which feed back into education. I recommend anyone who is eligible to apply.”

Dominika Dziurowicz

Impact CERC

Certificate III in Individual Support

“This grant means a lot to me as it gives me the opportunity to continue my studies with less financial stress. It allows me to focus on learning, developing my skills, and building a better future.”

Leisha Van Rooyen

Satellite CERC

Diploma of Screen - Specialist Makeup Services

“As I embark on studying this year, I’m so grateful that I will have a new laptop (my old MacBook was from Year 7 and without many of its keys left on it), plus having the equipment needed to take the year on will be much easier and without financial stress added. CEHL thank you for the huge assistance towards my future.”

Tamsin Young

Earth CERC

Master’s in Emergency Management & Disaster Relief

“I am undertaking this course of study both to combine my previous experience in construction management, community development and in building remote temporary cities producing music festivals all over the land.

Mosaic CMC

PhD Arts

“What a wonderful boost to receive the CEHL Study Grant. The grant will support me to pay for study-related expenses so I can more fully concentrate more on completing my PhD. The final few months call for closer focus on this massive project, and this grant will give me time to really enjoy the process without stress about bills.”

I can see that the things we learn on paddock about how to work together to build community, share resources and combine our skills for the benefit of all will become more important for communities as we face the challenges our climate will throw at us over the coming decade. I’m fascinated by how community cooperativism can support and accelerate recovery from natural disasters and the role of the arts and play in this recovery process.

I so appreciate the support my cooperative, Earth offers me in daily life and the support CEHL extends to this and other co-ops across the country.”

MEMBER VOICE >

CCA REVIEW UPDATE

Jay Aggarwal, Wyndham CERC

For Jay, being part of the Co-op/CEHL Agreement Working Group is about making sure co-op members have a real voice in shaping their future.

The working group’s role is to look closely at different parts of the CCA and make recommendations for improvement. That includes areas such as maintenance, properties and other parts of the agreement that affect day-to-day co-op life.

The current document is around 20 years old, so there is a clear need to review it and think about what could work better today.

Jay sees the process as a chance to help create something fairer and more balanced.

“It is about providing the voice of the co-op and helping create an agreement that is more equitable and fairer for both parties.”

A big focus for the group is finding solutions that are a win-win for both co-ops and CEHL. That means looking at past concerns, talking through what has and has not worked, and exploring practical ways to improve the document. It also means being clear about what is in scope for change, and what sits outside the review.

Jay said that matters because both sides rely on each other.

“We are looking for improvements that are a win-win for both co-ops and CEHL, because neither can exist without the other.”

There are around 15 members in the working group, made up of members from co-operatives across Victoria. They are coming together for a full-day workshop to work through the draft recommendations in more detail.

The move to a full-day, face-to-face workshop came after the group found that meeting online was not giving enough time for proper discussion. Jay said the group first met in an online forum, but the two-hour sessions were not enough time to really “hash it all out”.

An important moment in the process came when CEHL invited CENSW to share its experience of renegotiating its own CCA with co-ops in New South Wales last year. One thing that stood out to Jay was that the NSW co-ops had met face to face during their process.

This helped shape the decision to organise face-to-face workshop with the first meeting taking place on 25 March. Jay said the group strongly supported the change.

The workshop is an important step. The working group will use it to finalise its draft recommendations for the CEHL project team, which will then use those recommendations to draft a new agreement. Before anything is handed over, the working group will use a voting process to agree on the final recommendations.

CEHL Board Elected Directors have also been invited to the afternoon session of the workshop to hear directly from working group members.

For Jay, that matters. It shows that the process is not just about updating an old document. It is about listening, working together and building an agreement that reflects today’s co-op communities. At the heart of it all is a simple idea. Co-ops and CEHL rely on each other. A strong agreement should recognise that and support both to thrive.

CCA TIMELINE

Saturday 21 March Working Group meets in person.

April –June Drafting of the new agreement.

July

Late July

Draft agreement presented to the Working Group for further feedback.

Draft agreement circulated to broader co-op boards for consultation.

Aug –Sept Agreement updated based on consultation feedback.

PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT PIPELINE

CEHL is committed to growing co-op housing across Victoria - creating more homes, more opportunities, and stronger communities. We’re working hard to bring new developments to life in partnership with member co-ops and local stakeholders.

Right now, there is a solid pipeline of projects in motion, with many more ready to go once key approvals are in place.

Active Projects (in planning or underway):

19 new development projects that will deliver new property investment $23.6m In 2026 - 2028

CEHL will deliver new homes across 47

Examples of Current Projects

In Greater Ballarat, we’re currently delivering two developments to meet a range of member needs:

• 3 x 2-bedroom single-storey units in Redan South are due for completion August 2026; and

• 4 x 3-bedroom townhouses in Ballarat, due for completion February 2027

Together, these projects reflect the diverse housing needs of local co-op communities and deliver on CEHL’s ongoing commitment to strengthening co-op housing in regional Victoria.

Central

Mount Pleasant Redan South

St Albans

Banks Belmont

Herne Hill Newtown Thomson

GEELONG WATER SAVINGS

Co-ops in the Geelong region have made a real splash when it comes to sustainability, saving an impressive 4 million litres of water and an estimated $9,382 in water charges through a local partnership program.

Barwon Water — Victoria’s largest regional urban water supplier — teamed up with CEHL last year through its Community Housing Retrofitting Program, partially funded by the Victorian Government.

4,000,000

Litres of water co-ops saved through water efficiency partnership

42

Co-op properties upgraded

91,000

Average litres of water saved per household

Through the program, 42 co-op properties across Geelong and Colac received free upgrades, including repairs of leaks and replacement of inefficient fittings, fixtures and appliances. From new taps and showerheads to water-efficient toilets and laundry fittings, these small changes have resulted in significant savings.

In total, the program delivered an average saving of 91,000 litres and $223 per household in just one year.

Phoenix Co-op Sustainability Director, Gabrielle Griffin, said the impact goes far beyond the numbers.

“It’s one of those unseen things – leaks and drips from old or inefficient fixings. These savings will have a positive impact on members who live in our co-op. As a co-op director, I can see how this will save money on less plumbing in the long run,” Gabrielle said.

$9,382

In saved water charges

$233

Average savings per household

Barwon Water’s General Manager of Planning, Delivery and Environment, Seamus Butcher, said the initiative shows how small actions can make a big difference.

“Programs such as this strengthen our water efficiency and help secure supplies for our growing region — especially in a dry area like Geelong.”

Mel Fitzgerald said the collaboration is another example of CEHL’s commitment to Environmental, Sustainability, and Governance goals.

We’ll be looking for opportunities to expand similar partnerships in other regions so that more co-ops can benefit from free upgrades.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF THE CEHL TEAM >

PROPERTY OFFICER

Meet Craig Derbyshire

Our new series spotlighting teams and roles across CEHL begins with a look inside the work of Craig Derbyshire, Property Officer - a role at the centre of keeping homes safe, compliant and ready for the next household.

Like many of us, Craig’s day doesn’t truly start without coffee. In fact, it’s essential.

“Coffee is very important - I don’t function 100% until I’ve had at least two cups,” he laughs.

Once fuelled, Craig’s focus turns quickly to the operational heart of his role. His mornings typically involve checking notifications and emails for upcoming vacancies, reviewing vacancy dates, and scheduling inspections to ensure properties move smoothly through the turnover process.

Craig manages the full lifecycle of vacant properties. This includes overseeing vacancies, managing property handbacks from CERCs, coordinating MLCs when members leave a co-op and return to VicWide, and preparing handover documents when completed properties are offered back to co-ops.

Each step is part of a broader system designed to ensure homes are safe, compliant and ready for occupation.

“Each step is about making sure homes are safe, compliant, and ready for the next household,” Craig explains.

A major focus of Craig’s current work is the development of comprehensive scopes of work across CEHL properties. This approach looks holistically at both buildings and common areas, with a strong emphasis on long-term functionality and condition. Rather than reacting to issues as they arise, the focus is preventative and future-focused, helping ensure our properties are maintained properly and sustainably over time.

No two vacancies are ever the same, and that variability is one of the biggest challenges of the role. Some properties are returned in excellent condition, while others require anything from minor repairs to extensive internal and external works. More complex cases, such as hoarded or drug-affected properties, can take significant time and coordination to restore to a safe and liveable standard.

Craig’s approach is methodical. Each property is assessed against RTA minimum standards, compliance certificates are checked, and decisions are made about required upgrades - whether that’s new window coverings, flooring, painting or broader improvements. The goal is always the same: to create a welcoming home for the next member or renter.

The most rewarding part of the process comes at the very end.

“Seeing the transformation - taking a home that wasn’t in great condition and turning it into something fresh and welcoming - that’s incredibly satisfying,” Craig says.

Delivering that outcome relies heavily on collaboration. Craig works closely with the CDC, Tenancy and Maintenance teams to ensure vacancies are turned around efficiently, with timelines shaped by the scope of works required.

While there may not be a single standout achievement, Craig measures success in more meaningful terms. Each completed home represents a fresh start for a household - and a tangible reminder of the impact behind the work.

CO-OP DIRECTOR UPDATE

Alyce Holmes Executive Director Co-op and Housing Services

STRONG BOARDS ARE BUILT, NOT BORN

Boards function best when trust and respectful relationships make it safe to have open, honest discussions. Simple habits done consistently create the conditions for clearer decisions, stronger governance, and a united voice.

This article explains why relationships matter and how small actions can strengthen coop boards.

Why Relationships Affect Governance

When directors trust each other enough to speak openly, the board asks better questions, has stronger discussions, and makes clearer decisions. When trust is low, people stay quiet, conversations move outside the room, professionalism drops, and decision-making suffers.

Strong relationships make it possible to challenge ideas without attacking people.

Small Actions, Real Outcomes

Simple, intentional behaviours have a big impact on how well a board works.

1. Greet one another warmly

Starting meetings with a genuine greeting signals respect and lowers defensiveness, making it easier to discuss difficult issues constructively.

2. Share a meal

Whether it’s a potluck, pizza, or a simple dinner, eating together builds informal connections. Directors who know each other as people are more likely to assume good intent and stay focused on the issue rather than focusing on the individual.

3. Celebrate wins, big or small

Acknowledging progress keeps directors motivated and connected to purpose. Boards that only focus on problems risk burnout and disengagement.

4. Reflect to improve

Ending each meeting with a short reflection helps the board strengthen how it works. Questions might include:

• Did we make clear decisions?

• Did we use our time well?

• Did we listen to different views?

• Did we act professionally?

5. Disagree in the room, unite outside it

Strong boards debate openly, but once a decision is made, they support it collectively. A unified voice prevents confusion, protects trust, and reinforces professionalism.

What Goes Wrong When Boards Don’t Invest in Relationships

Boards that neglect relationships often experience:

• Poor quality, disengaged or aggressive discussions

• Personal conflict rather than co-op focused discussion

• Decisions being undermined outside meetings

• Side conversations and loss of trust with each other, co-op members and other stakeholder

• Burnout and resignations

These problems are often blamed on “difficult people,” when the real issue is a lack of shared norms and connection.

A Governance Investment, Not a Social Extra

Time and modest spending on relationship building are not optional extras; they are core governance tools.

Strong relationships create good discussion, clearer decisions, and more consistent professionalism.

Co-ops are at their best when boards operate as a disciplined, respectful team, focused on the coop’s purpose, even when opinions differ.

Director Assistance Program ‘DAP’

The Director Assistance Program (DAP) is a free, innovative counselling and support service available to all Co-op Directors.

Funded by CEHL, this program is designed to assist directors in their roles by providing guidance and support when needed.

Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) –Important Update for Secretaries

The Registrar of Co-operatives, which sits within Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) is the regulator for co-operatives in Victoria and plays an important role in ensuring your co-operative meets its legal obligations. Co-op directors need to engage with CAV as the representative of the Registrar to keep your co-operative compliant.

This includes updating:

• director details,

• lodging your Annual Report and

• managing key regulatory requirements.

CAV has now moved fully online, so all of these tasks must be completed by the Secretary through the MyCAV portal.

What you need to do

• Visit: https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/mycav

• Create a MyCAV account

• Log in and follow the prompts

Need help?

Contact your Co-operative Development Coordinator (CDC). They can guide you through the MyCAV sign-up and process.

Three, one hour sessions are available each year.

receive the unique code, contact Mark Dowling,

MAINTENANCE UPDATE

From July to December 2025 the CEHL maintenance team completed

133

$1,763,575 maintenance jobs total cost

The works included:

5

24

9 kitchen upgrades bathroom upgrades sewer and stormwater fence replacements window replacements underpinning, restumping driveways

12

11 17

6

CEHL is committed to embracing diversity and eliminating discrimination. Our workplace and housing services are inclusive, and we welcome everyone irrespective of ethnicity, lifestyle choice, faith, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

We acknowledge and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as Australia’s First People and Traditional Custodians of Country. CEHL will continue to advocate for a fairer, more inclusive society, and provide housing services that are welcoming, safe, and culturally appropriate

Get in touch!

We’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on this newsletter.

Let us know if you’d like to know more about any of the articles or want something included in the next issue. Please contact Kristina Innes on:

Phone 9208 0800 | Freecall 1800 353 669

Email engage@cehl.com.au | Web cehl.com.au

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