Founding members wanted in Greater Darwin

What we’re building

Solarpunk Builders Co-op is a worker-owned construction business being established in the greater Darwin region. We’ll start with standalone homes, then expand into duplexes, townhouses, and small property developments as the crew and capacity grow.

We’re aiming to combine talents and expertise to take on larger, more ambitious, and more profitable property developments than individual tradespeople could take on alone.

Our approach uses repeatable concrete formwork and standardised details to build durable, cyclone-ready homes suited to the local climate. By reducing waste and design complexity, we aim to deliver high-quality, affordable homes that last for generations.

We’re building a locally owned business for the long term, not chasing quick jobs.

Why a worker co‑op matters for you

In a worker co‑op, the people who do the work are the owners. There’s no external boss taking most of the profit, no distant shareholders demanding a cut, and no expensive CEO salary eating into what the crew earns. This is still a business, but it is built so the people doing the work own it. For co-op members, that means:

Real say in how we build. The crew decide how to design better, work smarter, and build more efficiently, because when the job runs well, everyone benefits.

Fair profit share. On top of normal, market‑rate pay for your role, surplus profits are shared between members based on how much they contribute.

Better job security. When work slows, co‑ops are more likely to cut hours before cutting people and can increase capacity faster when conditions improve.

One member, one vote. Active members decide how the business runs, not distant shareholders or external executives.

Who we’re looking for

We’re recruiting founding members across key trades and roles needed for residential construction from earthworks to auction. If you’re sick of being treated as disposable labor, want more control over your work, are keen to build something you own, and are willing to collaborate with others, you’re exactly who we’re after. Priority roles include:

• Licensed builder
• Accountant / bookkeeper
• Electrician
• Plumber
• Concrete form worker
• Concreter / floor finisher (polishing)
• Stainless steel installer / metal joiner
• Precast / tilt-up concrete erection crew
• Painter / protective coating
• Glazier / door installer
• Landscaper / irrigation specialist
• Real estate agent
• All‑rounders and other trades

What’s expected from founding members

In the early stage, work will likely be flexible and casual. Most founding members will keep other jobs or contracts while we get established. You won’t be expected to go full‑time from day one. As we grow and take on bigger, more consistent projects, our aim is to structure work so that:

• Members who want more hours can get as much consistent work as they want, within the co‑op’s capacity.
• The core crew is made up of active members who rely on the co‑op as their main source of income.
• We reduce reliance on external subcontractors and keep work and profits within the membership.

If you need 100% guaranteed full‑time work immediately, this isn’t that yet. If you’re willing to help build something solid over the next few years and want a clear path to steady, member‑first work, you’re exactly who we’re after.

How this works

We’re currently bringing together the founding crew who will help establish and operate the business. This is an early-stage opportunity for people who want to become active owners, not just employees. As a founding member, you’ll:

• Help shape the rules, roles, and profit‑sharing model.
• Commit time and skills to get the co‑op off the ground.
• Take on real responsibility and ownership from day one.

Interested? Let’s talk.

If you’re in the greater Darwin region, work in construction or related fields, and you’re curious about co‑ownership, we want to hear from you. The next step is to fill in the contact form and we’ll get back to you to set up a quick chat.