Monitoring the Code

The Homeworkers Code of Practice Committee has now put into place the tools for monitoring the Code, which is the beginning of real improvements in wages for outworkers.

The monitoring consists of:

• a computerised Garment Sewing Time Manual which translates the award hourly rate into fair piece rates for each garment outworkers sew;

• an accreditation system for Fashion houses, manufacturers and retailers who arrange the production of clothing;

• a 'No SweatShop' label that accredited companies are allowed to use and which outworkers will sew into clothing they make for fair rates;

An information campaign for outworkers took place during November 2000 with a multi-lingual phone in and promotion in the ethnic media. An information campaign for consumers has commenced, with the launch of the "No SweatShop" label having taken place on 8th March 2001 in Melbourne.

Retailers' participation in and promotion of these processes are essential for the Code to successfully stop the exploitation of outworkers.

At this stage, only 4 companies have undergone the accreditation process. Those companies are Australian Defence Apparel, Beare & Ley, Hunter Gatherer and Qualitops. These companies are to be commended for their stand for fair clothing production.

As for the other major retailers and manufacturers, the silence from them has been deafening. We are currently asking consumers to send a 'No Sweat Shop' postcard to retailers, letting them know that they want to see the label in stores. To obtain a postcard or for more information on the labelling system, contact the Fair Wear office by email or on (02) 9380 9091.