Locally, this is compounded by the fact that the industry has a high percentage of workers who are women, and who are from migrant, refugee and asylum-seeking backgrounds, where English is an additional language and the person may not be aware of their social rights. Outworkers who are often women working in isolation in their own homes, are particularly vulnerable due to the isolated nature of their working conditions and their invisibleness in the supply chain.
That’s why your work in procurement can be a powerful force for change!
By procuring uniforms, workwear, Personal Protective Equipment and other products that are made locally by businesses accredited by Ethical Clothing Australia, many of these risks can be assessed and mitigated.
Utilising Ethical Clothing Australia manufacturers ensures you are procuring from businesses who have been certified to be legally compliant with a range of Australian workplace laws, OH&S requirements and other legislation to avoid common issues such as underpayment and exploitation of workers.
Knowing your supplier
When you work with local manufacturers, you gain a greater visibility and understanding of the supply chain and can have direct contact and engagement with the people making your uniforms and clothing – which allows you more capacity for customisation, alterations and repairs.
