Our Story

Building bridges between traditional indigenous artistry and contemporary sustainable fashion, creating opportunities that honor culture while protecting our planet.

Our Mission

Text Trade was founded on the belief that fashion can be a force for positive change. We partner directly with indigenous communities to create authentic textile designs while ensuring fair compensation and cultural preservation.

Our commitment extends beyond indigenous partnerships to include collaborations with organizations like The Smith Family and Salvation Army, creating employment opportunities and supporting community development initiatives.

Ethical sourcing and fair trade practices
Indigenous cultural preservation and respect
Environmental sustainability and green certification
Community development and social impact
Traditional textile weaving

Indigenous Partnerships

We work directly with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Australia, ensuring authentic cultural representation and fair economic participation.

Community Partnerships Map

Click on the points to learn about each community partnership

Select a community

Click on the orange points to learn about our partnerships

Collaborative Design Process

Our indigenous partnerships follow a respectful collaborative model where traditional stories and artistic techniques are translated into contemporary textile designs. Each design carries the cultural significance and storytelling traditions of the originating community.

Artists receive fair compensation for their work, and a percentage of sales returns to community development projects chosen by the communities themselves. This model ensures sustainable economic opportunities while preserving cultural heritage.

15+
Partner Communities
200+
Indigenous Artists

Artist Spotlight

Indigenous textile art

Traditional Patterns

Ancient storytelling through contemporary textile design

Aboriginal art textiles

Cultural Motifs

Sacred symbols and dreamtime stories in fabric form

Indigenous design collaboration

Modern Interpretations

Bridging traditional art with contemporary fashion

Community Impact Partners

Extending our commitment to social responsibility through strategic partnerships with leading Australian charitable organizations.

The Smith Family Logo

The Smith Family

Education & Employment

Our partnership with The Smith Family creates employment pathways for disadvantaged young people, providing training and job opportunities in sustainable textile production. This collaboration combines environmental responsibility with social mobility.

Vocational training programs
Mentorship and skill development
Employment placement support
Salvation Army Logo

Salvation Army

Social Welfare & Support

Working with Salvation Army's employment services, we provide job opportunities for individuals facing barriers to employment. Our flexible work arrangements and supportive environment help people rebuild their lives through meaningful work.

Flexible employment opportunities
Work-life balance support
Career development pathways

Our Journey

Key milestones in our commitment to ethical fashion and community partnerships.

2018

Company Founded

Text Trade established with a mission to create ethical denim through indigenous partnerships and sustainable practices.

2019

First Indigenous Partnership

Established our first collaboration with Arnhem Land artists, creating authentic textile designs based on traditional stories.

2020

Fair Trade Certification

Achieved Fair Trade certification, ensuring ethical practices throughout our supply chain and production processes.

2021

Charity Partnerships

Launched collaborations with The Smith Family and Salvation Army, expanding our social impact initiatives.

2024

Green Certification

Achieved Green certification for our sustainable production practices and environmental commitment.