The Social Outfit

Who we are

The Social Outfit was founded in Sydney in 2014 to connect women from refugee and new migrant communities with the fashion industry. It provides first Australian jobs, industry training and a clear pathway to ongoing employment.

The Social Outfit is a Social Traders Certified social enterprise and a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR-1) charity. It holds Ethical Clothing Australia accreditation, which verifies that every garment worker is paid lawfully and works in safe conditions. The Social Outfit makes clothes in ways that reduce waste and promote sustainability, by using premium deadstock fabrics donated by industry partners. All income from product sales goes back into its employment and training programs.

Between 2014 and 2025, The Social Outfit employed 135 migrant women, paid more than $2 million in wages, and delivered 1,400 vocational skills trainings. 83% of participants secured their first Australian job through the organisation, and 84% went on to further work elsewhere.

What we do

The Social Outfit’s programs prioritise women from refugee and new migrant backgrounds who face systemic barriers to work. They create opportunities that recognise their skills, build financial independence and open doors to careers across fashion and retail.

Community engagement

Introductory classes and creative projects give participants a first experience of sewing, craft, and design. These sessions also help build relationships and social connection within the community.

Skills training and programs 

Structured sewing and retail programs build technical skills, confidence, and readiness for work. Participants develop sewing techniques on industrial machines and gain an introduction to Australian workplace routines and expectations.

Paid work experience 

Short-term, supported roles in The Social Outfit's workroom or retail store provide participants with local work experience and earned income.

Employment 

Ongoing roles at The Social Outfit or with industry partners, with continued support to progress a career.

By 2030, The Social Outfit aims to support 200 more women into their first paid work experience, help 200 women advance their careers, and deliver a further 800 skills and competency trainings.

The Social Outfit designs and produces its own garments, and offers contract manufacturing services. Skilled refugee and migrant women make every product locally. The Social Outfit sells through their retail store in Newtown and online, and every purchase funds employment and skills training.