News & Insights

Many of us rarely consider the importance of care label instructions, but they play a crucial role in preserving the longevity of our cherished garments like jackets, dresses and shirts. While it has been mandatory for Australian suppliers to provide these instructions in English, changes are underway, granting suppliers alternative ways to communicate these essential guidelines.

On 5 September 2023, the Consumer Goods (Care Labelling) Information Standard 2023 (Mandatory Standard) was updated in relation to the labelling requirements for clothing and textile products.

The purpose of the Mandatory Standard is to ensure regulated goods are provided with adequate written care instructions. The instructions supply consumers, dry cleaners and cleaning professionals with information on how to care for clothing and textile products, helping them maximise their useful life and avoid damage such as shrinkage and running of colours.

Which goods do the standards apply to?

Under the new Mandatory Standard, regulated goods are any:

• clothing
• household textiles
• apparel (including articles such as wedding dresses, christening gowns, and promotional, sample, and flawed articles)
• furnishings
• upholstered furniture
• bedding (including sleeping bags)
• mattresses
• bed bases
• piece goods and yarns made from textiles, plastics, plastic coated fabrics, suede skins, hides, grain leathers and/or furs

Which goods are exempt from the standards?

There are several goods that are exempt from the Mandatory Standard, including second hand goods, footwear, and jute products.

Important reminder for businesses

It is vital for your business to be aware of the following transitional periods:

1. From 5 September until 4 March 2024, suppliers must continue to provide care instructions written in English, but they may choose to add the international care symbol.
2. From 5 March 2024 onwards, suppliers can provide care instructions either by writing the instructions in English, by using international care symbols, or both.

Businesses who fail to comply with the Mandatory Standard may face a penalty of $50M or 30% of the business’ annual turnover (whichever is greater).

Need more information or assistance?

Macpherson Kelley are here to provide advice on the recent updates in clothing and textile labelling standards.

For further assistance please contact one of our experts.

The information contained in this article is general in nature and cannot be relied on as legal advice nor does it create an engagement. Please contact one of our lawyers listed above for advice about your specific situation.