We’ve had feedback from quite a few members who have tried to sign up to use Square’s payments system, only to find that Square won’t provide support for co-operatives! Co-operatives are a legal and legitimate business structure in Australia. We’re advocating to Square that they should provide support for co-ops, just as they do for all other business types, as well as associations. We want to let them know that they’re missing out on having some great businesses as customers. Have you got a story to tell? Please send a short summary of your experience to benjamin@fed.coop if you’re happy for us to share your experience in our advocacy with them.

Trouble getting a grant?

We’re on a campaign to make sure that co-operatives are eligible for grants in the same way that many associations, charities and businesses. Sometimes co-operatives are left out of eligibility criteria simply by oversight, other times, grant-makers are not familiar with the co-operative structure. We’re keen to hear from co-ops who have difficulties applying for grants so that we can help improve understanding about our business model and make life easier in the future. Please drop us a line at benjamin@fed.coop if you have an experience to share.