Research & Publications
Ethical Clothing Australia commissions and publishes independent research to measure the real-world impact of ethical accreditation on workers, businesses, and the broader community. We make our research freely available to support informed decision-making by government, industry, and advocates.
AHRI / University of Sydney Report
This independent report, produced by the Australian Human Rights Institute (UNSW Sydney) and the University of Sydney, examines Ethical Clothing Australia's accreditation program in the context of a rapidly evolving global regulatory landscape. It considers how Ethical Clothing Australia compares to international counterparts in the textile, clothing and footwear sector, and how the program aligns with emerging human rights due diligence laws in Europe and Australia's own Modern Slavery Act. The report finds that Ethical Clothing Australia is a standout model globally, distinguished by its union-led auditing process, its focus on transparency and remediation, and its ability to drive compliance across entire local supply chains, not just individual businesses.
Social Return on Investment for Procurement
Ethical Clothing Australia commissioned independent research and consulting firm First Person Consulting to calculate the social return on investment (SROI) generated when buyers choose to purchase from Ethical Clothing Australia-accredited manufacturers. The report focuses on Victorian Government procurement and examines the financial, social, and economic benefits flowing to workers, industry, and government. The findings are clear: for every additional $1 spent buying from an Ethical Clothing Australia-accredited business, $1.13 of social value is returned to the community. The report also demonstrates that this value is not limited to government buyers. It applies to any organisation or individual purchasing from an Ethical Clothing Australia-accredited manufacturer.
Learn more about accreditation
Get in touch with an Accreditation Program Advisor to discuss your eligibility and ask questions about the accreditation process.
Support local
Ethical Clothing Australia acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout the lands now known as Australia and recognise and celebrate their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples today.We are a place free from discrimination, where diversity is celebrated and everyone belongs. We are committed to creating a safe and welcoming space for all.