Full List: More than 60 fashion labels still made in Australia

There are many Australian fashion brands which are still making their clothes locally, despite many producing offshore in foreign countries. See who’s still here.

Australian fashion brand Obus is one label that has opted to make their clothes locally, despite the overwhelming majority producing offshore.

Founded by Kylie Zerbst 20 years ago, the brand has a strong focus on sustainability in fashion and the issues surrounding ethical production.

“We produce the majority of our collections in Australia, working alongside family-run businesses that we have daily contact with,” Ms Zerbst said.

“Offering affordable, quality garments to our customers while at the same time supporting local businesses and the Australian manufacturing industry is no easy task.

“It means our margins are really small, and that makes it extremely hard to compete with brands that manufacture offshore. Our team needs to work harder and smarter with each collection.”

Kylie Zerbst is the founder of Melbourne based womenswear brand OBUS which has been largely manufacturing in Australia for over 25 years. Picture: Aaron Francis

Despite the challenges the business faced during the Covid pandemic and other changes in the industry, Ms Zerbst said she still prioritises supporting local makers.

“My dream since starting Obus has been to run a healthy, sustainable business that always feels small enough to be personal,” she said.

“We make limited runs of high quality, well made clothing that transcend seasonal fads, so we try to keep our focus on doing that and trust that will set us apart in the eyes of customers.”

Ms Zerbst said it is important for Australians to support brands that manufacture most of their clothing.

“I think that for fashion lovers, identity also extends to what the brands you support stand for.

“Labels that manufacture locally reduce the environmental impacts associated with offshore production, like packaging and transport, have more control over the conditions their manufacturers work in and help ensure there are future jobs in Australian fashion.

“There are so many amazing Australian brands that manufacture here, but in this super competitive fast fashion market they won’t survive without a community to support them.

“By choosing to support us you allow us to keep creating beautiful clothing in a beautiful way.”

Jessie Samya and Veronica Khoury who are among many Australian shoppers not aware that brands they shop at are actually manufactured outside of Australia. Picture: Richard Dobson

AUSSIE SHOPPERS: ‘I THINK ABOUT IF IT’S WORTH BUYING’

It comes as no surprise to friends Jessie Samya and Veronica Khoury that many brands are manufacturing outside the country.

But they were shocked at the thought of being forced to pay hundreds of dollars for clothing that costs businesses a fraction of the price to make.

Retail worker and Bachelor of Design student Ms Samya said she shops from a wide range of brands including Zara, Kmart and Louis Vuitton.

“Most brands within the clothing industry including AJE, Forever New and Country Road outsource their production as a way to save costs,” the 21-year-old said.

“However, it does raise some concerns with where their priorities are in regards to the environment and ethical issues.

“Realising that a clothing item could cost so much for us despite its relatively low production cost, does make me think about the pricing dynamics and profit motives that these businesses operate.”

Ms Samya said the awareness of the manufacturing origin of garments does “raise certain considerations” for her.

“While it does impact my spending decisions, it’s important to acknowledge the escalating living costs that also influence my shopping choices,” she said.

Ms Khoury — who is studying graphic design — opts for brands including Forever New, Zara, Dotti and Cotton On.

“From my experience working in retail, my understanding is that most Australian brands manufacture products overseas as it is cheaper,” Ms Khoury, 20, said.

“Having the knowledge that clothing items cost far more than it does to make them does make me feel a little irritated.

“It makes me second guess if it’s worth buying items that cost so much, depending on the quality.”

Ms Khoury said while it “doesn’t bother” her where the clothes are made, the way employees are treated “is a concern”.

“This has somewhat changed my shopping experience as I limit the items I purchase and always look out for prices,” she said.

Originally published as Full List: More than 60 fashion labels still made in Australia