Procurement Case Study
Minister for Procurement Mick de Brenni with Ross and Lisa Strudwick, 2022
Good News Story: Struddys Apparel x Queensland Government
Did you know the Queensland State Government invests over $18.5 billion each year on goods and services? That’s a significant amount of purchasing power, and an incredible opportunity to drive positive impact.
Under the Queensland Government’s flagship ‘Buy Queensland’ procurement policy, local sportswear manufacturer, Struddys, was recently selected as a preferred supplier for government uniforms. Proudly sporting their Ethical Clothing Australia accreditation, Struddys ensures that their products are made locally under ethical conditions, with worker safety, fair wages, and support for Indigenous communities at the forefront of everything they do.
With over 45 years in the industry, Struddys is one of only a handful of Australian-based uniform manufacturers, specialising in high-quality garments for teams, schools, and now the Queensland Government.
The challenge
Before partnering with the Queensland Government, Struddys, like many local manufacturers, struggled to compete with companies offering cheaper, mass-produced international goods. Despite their commitment to quality and local production, staying competitive while maintaining ethical standards felt like an uphill battle in a market often driven by low-cost alternatives.
Another challenge they faced was Queensland’s highly regionalised manufacturing workforce. With vacancies at record rates, and wages rapidly growing, a lack of skilled labour supply has put increasingly acute pressure on the industry, according to Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ).
”All too often, the demand for lower prices leads businesses to cut corners at the expense of worker rights and supply chain transparency. It’s encouraging to see businesses like Struddys choosing ethics over expediency, and reap the rewards.
— Rachel Reilly, National Manager, Ethical Clothing Australia
The solution
Struddys became accredited with Ethical Clothing Australia in 2022 – a process which not only demonstrated their ongoing commitment to protecting the rights of their workers, but also opened up new pathways for growth and enabled them to meet the government’s ethical procurement standards.
Being chosen as a preferred supplier by the Queensland Government gave Struddys the stability and surety it needed to continue manufacturing ethically and grow their workforce to meet demand.
”Buy Queensland makes so much sense—it helps keep Queensland dollars circulating in Queensland, boosting businesses like ours—and that’s good for everyone.
— Michael Rasmussen, General Manager of Struddys Apparel
Strengthened by Ethical Clothing Australia’s support, Struddys ensures full transparency across their supply chain—from fabric sourcing to garment production—setting a high benchmark in the industry.
The impact
This partnership between Struddys and the Queensland Government has generated significant outcomes, including:
- Job Creation: Through this partnership, Struddys has been able to expand its workforce, with plans to double its current staff within the next five years, creating more jobs for local Queenslanders.
- Regional Economic Growth: Struddys’ local manufacturing contributes to Queensland’s economy, part of the manufacturing sector’s $20 billion annual impact.
- Ethical Supply Chain: Struddys’ accreditation ensures that every garment produced meets high ethical standards, provides safe working conditions and guarantees fair wages for workers.
”I’m proud to see another iconic local company now able to put Queensland’s frontline workers in Queensland-made garments. This is about supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and ensuring that our procurement practices reflect our values.
— Queensland Minister for Procurement, Mick de Brenni
The power of ethical procurement
Every time an organisation procures its uniforms or apparel from suppliers accredited by Ethical Clothing Australia, they have an opportunity; to uphold workers’ rights, boost the local economy, and contribute to a more ethical future. That’s exactly what we’re seeing between accredited suppliers, like Struddys, and the Queensland Government.
By aligning their procurement practices with ethical values of transparency and fairness, the Queensland Government is not only supporting local manufacturing businesses and keeping money invested in the regional economy, but it is also ensuring safer conditions for local workers.
Leading the way for other government agencies and businesses, this partnership is a shining example that ethical practices and economic growth don’t just go hand-in-hand—they’re a reason to celebrate.
Ready to use your procurement power for good? Learn more about Ethical Clothing Australia’s accreditation program or find an accredited manufacturer on our Directory.
