Rafiad Ruhi
The Industrial Revolution, a time of remarkable technological progress and significant societal change that spanned the globe from the late 18th to the early 20th century, has had a lasting impact on Australia. The influence of steam power, factory systems, and mass production emerged in Australia with a distinct timeline compared to its European origins. Nonetheless, these developments significantly transformed various industries and the lives of individuals across the continent. In examining these transformations, the emergence of the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) industry in Australia presents a noteworthy case study of the interplay between global influences and local circumstances, resulting in the establishment of a new economic sector, which, however, would subsequently encounter considerable challenges in an increasingly globalized environment.
Australia’s experience during the Industrial Revolution was distinct, significantly influenced by its colonial background, extensive geography, and abundant resources. In contrast to Britain, where the forces of industrialization were propelled by an abundance of domestic coal and iron resources alongside a growing population, Australia’s early economic endeavours were primarily focused on agriculture, especially wool production. This was subsequently followed by the extraction of mineral resources that gained momentum after the gold rushes of the mid-19th century. The primary industries played a crucial role in driving economic growth and welcoming numerous waves of immigration.
In the latter half of the 19th century, Australia witnessed the beginnings of its industrial development, driven by an expanding domestic market, the influx of capital from the resource sector, and the necessity to cater to a widely dispersed population. As large-scale manufacturing established itself in sectors such as agricultural machinery and food processing, the RMG industry developed at a more measured pace, initially concentrating on tailoring and small-scale production to address local needs.
Before the advent of industrialization, the production of clothing in Australia, like other regions, predominantly took place within the confines of home-based enterprises. Garments were produced either within the home or by skilled tailors and seamstresses, a meticulous process that led to items that were often bespoke and relatively costly. The introduction of the sewing machine, patented in the mid-19th century, marked a significant technological advancement for the RMG sector. Although the initial costs were high, the gradual improvements in affordability and efficiency of sewing machines led to a significant transition in clothing production, moving from individual artisans to small workshops and ultimately to larger manufacturing facilities.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Australia experienced a gradual yet consistent expansion of clothing factories, particularly in its urban hubs such as Melbourne and Sydney. The initial factories primarily concentrated on the production of standardized clothing for the working population, including resilient workwear and essential everyday garments. The presence of domestically sourced wool and, subsequently, cotton offered a local supply of raw materials; however, it is important to note that the quality and diversity frequently fell short when compared to imported textiles.
The First World War served as an important impetus for the growth of Australian manufacturing, particularly within the RMG sector. Considering the challenges faced in international trade and a growing emphasis on national self-sufficiency, there has been a notable rise in the demand for domestically produced goods, encompassing both military uniforms and civilian apparel. This period witnessed a notable expansion of existing factories alongside the establishment of new ones, thereby laying a solid foundation for future growth during the interwar years.
The interwar period, along with the ensuing Second World War, provided additional momentum to the Australian RMG industry. Government initiatives focused on import substitution, alongside the necessity to provide for an expanding population and military, have contributed to the establishment of a safeguarded domestic market. Tariffs and various trade barriers have provided local manufacturers with a protective environment against more affordable international competition, thereby facilitating the growth and diversification of the industry’s production capabilities. By the mid-20th century, Australia had developed a robust RMG sector, providing employment opportunities for a considerable number of individuals, especially women and migrant workers, while producing a diverse array of clothing for the domestic market.
Nevertheless, this era of safeguarded development also laid the groundwork for forthcoming difficulties. Due to a degree of insulation from global competition, certain segments of the Australian RMG industry have experienced a decline in efficiency and innovation relative to their international peers. The emphasis on import substitution, although beneficial for local employment, did not consistently encourage the integration of the most advanced technologies or production techniques.
The final decades of the 20th century marked the beginning of a transformative period characterized by increased globalization and trade liberalization, significantly influencing the Australian RMG industry. The implementation of successive government policies designed to enhance the Australian economy’s engagement with international competition has resulted in the gradual reduction of tariffs and other protective measures. This situation has led to an influx of more affordable imports from nations with reduced labour expenses, especially within the Asian region, impacting the local RMG sector significantly.
A considerable number of Australian clothing and textile factories, facing challenges in competing with overseas manufacturers on pricing, have had to make the difficult decision to close or substantially reduce their operations. Employment in the sector experienced a significant decline as production transitioned to offshore locations. Retailers and wholesalers have been progressively sourcing garments directly from overseas, which has contributed to a notable decline in the market share of local producers.
The challenges posed by elevated labour costs in relation to international competitors, a comparatively limited domestic market, and the absence of scale economies have created obstacles for local manufacturers striving to remain competitive in terms of pricing.
In light of the challenges faced, certain segments of the Australian RMG industry have demonstrated resilience and adaptability by concentrating on niche markets, producing high-quality products, committing to ethical and sustainable practices, and capitalizing on Australia’s distinctive advantages, including its exceptional merino wool. Local designers and brands that prioritize quality, innovation, and the essence of Australian identity have cultivated a dedicated following among consumers.
The current Australian RMG landscape presents a nuanced interplay of local design and manufacturing, frequently emphasizing higher-value or specialized products, alongside a notable dependence on imports for mass-market clothing. There is an increasing recognition of the social and environmental implications tied to global supply chains and fast fashion, which is fostering a heightened consumer interest in garments that are locally produced and ethically sourced.
In recent years, there have been concerted initiatives aimed at rejuvenating Australian textile and clothing manufacturing, motivated by a commitment to enhancing supply chain resilience, promoting ethical production practices, and safeguarding local skills and employment opportunities. Emerging initiatives are centered around advanced manufacturing technologies, sustainable practices, and fostering collaborations between designers and manufacturers, with the objective of establishing a distinct presence for Australian-made garments in the global market.
The narrative of the Australian RMG industry, viewed through the perspective of the Industrial Revolution, highlights the significant influences of technological advancement, globalization, and economic strategy. The journey of the industry, starting from modest workshops equipped with early sewing machines to navigating challenges and transformations in a globalized context, mirrors Australia’s overall economic progress and its changing role on the world stage. Although the extensive factory production of the mid-20th century has diminished, the subtle currents of innovation and the lasting elements of quality and local identity persist in influencing the future of garment making in Australia.
