ARCH is the peak resourcing agency for Housing Co-operatives in NSW. It assists interested groups of people statewide to plan, develop and establish housing co-operatives.

It also undertakes representation, advocacy, networking, education and training, program and policy development, information provision, planning and project development on behalf of NSW co-ops.

• Promote awareness of the co-operative housing model in NSW and maximise choice for housing consumers.
• Support the development of a well managed co-operative housing sector.
• Provide information, resources, technical expertise and referral as required to members and the community.
• Provide effective education and training to support 'best practice' in co-op management and administration.
• Encourage the development of a well located, cost effective housing which responds to co-op members needs.
• Promote a co-ordinated approach to community housing by developing and maintaining strategic alliances with government and non-government organisations at national, state, regional and local levels.
• Represent the interests of the sector to government and advocate on its behalf.
• Promotes the interests of the co-operative housing sector through the active involvement in the development of appropriate policies for it.
• ARCH's Vision is to build active communities through Co-operative Housing.

• An Executive Officer
• Three Education and Resource Workers
• An Office Administrator
• An Administrative Assistant.

ARCH also employs contract workers from time to time for projects including specialised training and expertise, and the development, production of publications and provision of technical advice.

Once a co-operative is incorporated, it is eligible to become a member of ARCH. Membership costs $100 for 50 $2 shares. Yearly subscriptions are now $150.00 p/a.

Membership of ARCH means joining a community of people in NSW committed to co-operative ideals and lifestyle.

• representation
• quarterly newsletters
• information & support
• workshops & seminars
• publications
• training tailored to your individual co-ops needs

Funding Sources for Housing Co-ops and Community Housing Providers

Government funding programs are the major source of funds used by co-ops and other community housing groups to acquire housing. To a lesser degree groups also get funds through banks and other financial institutions, fundraising, donations and so forth. The purpose of this information sheet is to provide information on the government programs which provide funding to housing co-ops and other community housing providers.

Organisational Structure

Click to view chart

[More information about ARCH]

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