Briefing note to the Prime Minister and incoming Ministers on the New Zealand cooperative sector (2021)

Advocacy submission
Written By Saya Wahrlich

This briefing note was prepared by Cooperative Business NZ following the 2020 General Election and provided to the Prime Minister and Ministers with portfolios relevant to the cooperative sector.

It outlined the contribution of cooperatives and mutuals to New Zealand’s economy and communities, and highlighted opportunities for collaboration as the country navigated economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic. The briefing positioned cooperatives as a proven, resilient business model capable of supporting economic, social, and environmental stability during periods of disruption.

Briefing at a glance 

  • Prepared by: Cooperative Business NZ 
  • Date: January 2021 
  • Audience: Prime Minister and incoming Ministers 
  • Policy areas: Economic recovery, regulation, sustainability, employment 
  • Format: Ministerial briefing note (PDF)

Purpose of the briefing

The briefing aimed to support early dialogue between government and the cooperative sector, and to highlight how cooperative and mutual businesses could contribute to economic recovery, resilience, and long-term wellbeing.

Key issues outlined

  • The contribution of cooperatives and mutuals to GDP, employment, and regional economies

  • The role of member-owned enterprises in retaining value within New Zealand

  • Opportunities to leverage cooperatives in post-COVID economic recovery

  • Regulatory and legislative challenges facing cooperatives

  • The importance of education and understanding of the cooperative business model

  • Alignment with international frameworks and sustainable development goals

Read the submission [pdf]

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Saya Wahrlich https://www.stocknotstock.com/
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