The Ethical Clothing Australia (ECA) Week is slated to run from 9 to 15 October to celebrate ethical manufacturing within the textile, clothing, and footwear (TCF) industry.
The event aims to highlight the commitment of Australian businesses that go beyond mere claims of ethical operations by achieving accreditation through ECA’s accreditation program, ensuring they uphold the rights of their workers.
ECA Week also serves as a platform for the public to commend these businesses and recognize the pivotal role of the 489,000 skilled workers in Australia, with over 77 per cent of them being female, who contribute to the creation and distribution of the garments we cherish.
In its third year, ECA Week 2023 will provide a hybrid program featuring both digital and in-person events.
Participants will have the opportunity to gain insights into the operations of local manufacturers and brands such as Denimsmith, Vince Clothing, Melco Fabrics, Next State Printers, Remuse, and Knovus Knitwear.
The digital program lineup includes renowned names like The Social Studio, Cue, Anthea Crawford, Arnsdorf, Clothing the Gaps, Humphrey Law, Bushy Underwear, Perri Cutten, Flat Iron the Label, Pearl Button Bridal, and The Ark Clothing Company.
ECA Week 2023 will begin with an exclusive event in Melbourne, including Victorian Minister for Industry and Innovation and Sovereign Manufacturing Ben Carroll.
Penelope Loorham, head Designer and creative director of Perri Cutten, will be the evening’s keynote speaker.
An event will also be conducted in Sydney on 12 October, with speakers including Eric Phu, co-founder of Citizen Wolf, and Tara Allen, PR and communications manager at Cue.
Rachel Reilly, the national manager of Ethical Clothing Australia, expressed her excitement about ECA Week 2023, stating, “We are excited to bring ECA Week 2023 to the Australian public for the third year running.”
She added, “We are so proud of the commitment ECA-Accredited brands and manufacturers make to producing locally, and to protecting and upholding the rights of their workers throughout their entire local supply chain.”
“At ECA, we want the Australian public to also know about their commitment, and for the public to champion these businesses by buying locally and ethically,” Reilly concluded.
To explore the full ECA Week 2023 program, visit this page.
