The Mutual Difference

Mutuals and cooperatives operate across the Australian economy to deliver trusted products and services in some of the most competitive domestic and international markets.

Some examples include:

• Credit unions.
• Banks.
• Roadside assistance.
• Non-profit health funds.
• Mutual insurers.
• Discretionary mutual.
• Retail buying groups.
• Agricultural co-operatives.
• And more!

As a discretionary mutual, CivicRisk provides its members with protection and risk management support. Moreover, combined with our organisation’s overarching goal of transparency and exceptional service, we ensure:

• Increased levels of customer trust and accountability.
• Open communication and collaboration between stakeholders.
• Expanded coverage options and competition in insurance markets.
• Fostering economic resilience and sustainability.

Why do Mutuals Work?

Mutuals form as a response to markets that are unable or unwilling to meet the needs of their customers. They provide a different approach to how organisations operate and how they interact with their customers.

Mutuals are owned by their members, who are also their customers. This means that mutuals are accountable to the people who use them and have an incentive to provide high-quality services at competitive prices.

Once established, mutuals and co-operatives have proven to be robust, resilient and stable, with many operating for over 150 years.

CivicRisk has been serving Australian councils for over three decades, and we have a wealth of experience in providing innovative and creative solutions to challenges. 

Benefits of Mutuals

Every member of a mutual has a say in its governance and is able to vote on issues that affect them. Members support each other to achieve common goals, and are encouraged to work together as a community.

There are a number of benefits to being a member of a mutual such as CivicRisk, including:

• Mutuals embrace an ethical framework that values openness, transparency, collaboration and social responsibility.
• Mutuals provide protection and risk management services, each of which is designed to benefit all members equally.
• The members make the key decisions and establish strategy so that mutuals are democratically controlled organisations.
• Members contribute equitably to the capital of the Mutual and surplus money is allocated towards the organisation’s development, member-focused activities or returned to members.
• Education and training for members, elected representatives, managers and employees is a priority to ensure all stakeholders can contribute effectively to the mutuals.
• Mutuals serve their members best by working together through local, national, regional and international structures.
• Co-operatives and mutuals contribute to the sustainable development of their communities through policies and initiatives approved by members.

Become a CivicRisk Mutual Member

We’re committed to serving our members and their communities by providing creative solutions to risk management and protection needs. We value our members, and we know that by working together we can make a difference.

For more information on becoming a CivicRisk member, contact us. We look forward to partnering with you!