Curious about us?

Our most commonly asked questions...

Q1: Where do I find information on a career in fashion or textile/clothing manufacturing?
A1: The Victorian Government funds the TCF&L Industry Advisory Body to provide advice on training needs and delivery in the sector. The TCF&L IAB page features a TCF Careers and Qualifications section with information on the industry and links to career and training websites.

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Q2: How easy is it to get a job in the Fashion Industry? I want to be a fashion designer...
A2: It's not easy. You need to study hard, have a flair for creativity and innovation and get ready for some serious competition. This is a cutting edge industry and you need to be both sharp and competitive. Have you also thought about other careers in the industry? If not, take a look at the careers section of the Manufacturing Skills Australia website. Also visit the Australian Fashion Council website for additional information

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Q3: Why should I join the TFIA?
A3: To network with other like-minded suppliers, customers and competitors; to be part of the development of industry policy; to be at the forefront of possible changes to the environment in which we operate. As a sector-specific association, the TFIA only represents companies engaged in TCF and design activities meaning that its message is not diluted by the varying interests of other non-TCF manufacturing sectors or service sectors.

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Q4: Do you represent importers?
A4: It is a fact that changes in the Australian environment for manufacturers has demanded that local industry supplement their product range with imported products. When appropriate the Council assists members with issues associated with imported raw materials or finished goods.

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Q5: Is the TFIA a Government funded body?
A5: The TFIA is a membership driven organisation and receives no ongoing funding from state or federal governments. It thus has no allegiances to political parties or governments. Government funding is however provided for specific projects and cannot be used for other purposes.

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Q6: Is the TFIA affiliated with the TCFUA?
A6: The TFIA is a membership driven organisation that represents employers and has no direct relationship with the TCFUA or other unions. The TFIA jointly administers two projects with the TCFUA - the Homeworkers Code of Practice and the Victorian TCF&L Industry Advisory Body. However the two organisations remain entirely separate entities.

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Q7: I am after the manufacturers of particular products and / or brands.
A7: There are two major directories listing TCF companies and agents in Australia: Ragtrader and Australasian Textiles & Fashion. The Yellow Pages directory also provides listings. The Council can assist if you are looking for particular product types, while designers seeking manufacturers should visit the Australian Fashion Council.

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Q8: I am setting up my own TCF company and want to know if I am setting up procedures correctly...
A8: Visit business.gov.au, the federal government's principal business resource, for information on establishing a business. Designers can also visit the Australian Fashion Council for specific information.

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Q9: I am after general information on the Australian TCF industry...
A9: Contact the Business Intelligence division of the TFIA via info@tfia.com.au or phone (03) 8680 9400. 

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Q10: I would like more information on the assistance scheme for TCF companies in Australia...
A10: Visit ausindustry.gov.au or contact the TFIA for further information on this program. TFIA members can obtain assistance from the TFIA on applying for the grants under this program.

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Q11: I am an employer and would like more information on my legal obligations to workers...

A11: Information and advice about Australia's new national workplace relations system can be found at the federal government's Fair Work Online site. Each State Government also has an Industrial Relations Department which will provide state specific information. All companies are recommended to contact a registered Industrial Relations body such as the Australian Industry Group, Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry or the Textile, Clothing and Footwear Union of Australia before proceeding with workplace changes.

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