In recent years there has been a movement that has swelled in support and energy…

A movement to support local retailers, small businesses, and the independent high street shops that feed into our community soul. The online, community based movement to Shop Small and Shop Local, to Buy Local and Support Small Business is gathering wider recognition so our communities don’t lose the heart of the high street. However it goes beyond just buying from local businesses to complete the circle of support. For consumers to buy Australian made products, it increases the benefits for our communities and strengthens our national interest.

A recent survey showed that around 9 in 10 people aged over 14 years preference buying Australian made when given the chance (Source: Roy Morgan 2019). So what is that makes locally made so much more than just the warm feeling of buying in close proximity? Here are our top reasons for why Australian made product is the most important product to buy.

A recent survey showed that around 9 in 10 people aged over 14 years preference buying Australian made when given the chance.

Quality of Product and Traceability

There’s something special about receiving an item or gift that is well made and has attention to detail at its core. When that item has been made to the highest quality and is locally manufactured, you also get a level of traceability for the components, packaging and delivery that may overseas made items keep hidden from view.

Understanding the supply chain and keeping it accountable for its sustainability aspects also add to the workmanship and quality of the product and embedded manufacturing footprint. The quality of the product isn’t just about how it is made but also how long it lasts and ability to do the job it was made to do.

Fair treatment of workers

Usually Australian made products are a higher price point than similar items made offshore. Although a higher cost of labour may contribute to this, the fair treatment of workers, workplace conditions and safety of workers is valued higher in this country than other places. This fosters better rights for the workforce and ethical protections that empower not only the people but also the products they produce.

Environmental accountability and declining emissions

More than just a buzzword, environmental accountability is emerging as a powerful buying decision amongst consumers due to its ongoing impact and future ramifications. The idea of environmental accountability covers all aspects from base material production, goods manufacturing, packaging, delivery, and the options available for end of life disposal. By purchasing locally manufactured and shipped goods, there is usually a decrease in emissions from the manufacturing of the product as well as more attention about emissions reductions possibilities for that product in the future.

Buying locally made products shortens the distance for shipping (which can also lower delivery impacts on top of the delivery), involves manufacturers and encourages them to be more sustainable with accountability on their processes. By purchasing locally made, we can strive for environmental accountability throughout the production chain and create a closed loop for each product.

Supporting communities and regional progress

It’s a fundamental idea behind buying locally made products from local shops – we can each help to strengthen our communities and build resilience into our workforce. The #BuyLocal campaign is creating awareness for consumers to seek local options for the products they need and support a variety of business sizes and diversity in our neighbourhoods. When these small businesses also buy locally made or sourced products, the benefits of a circular economy and ongoing opportunity for small to medium business continue to contribute towards community spirit.

It’s a fundamental idea behind buying locally made products from local shops – we can each help to strengthen our communities and build resilience into our workforce.

Lowering the cost to Consumers

Currently, Australia offers ongoing financial subsidies and industry support across many areas of the manufacturing trade. However with these subsidies provided at a cost to tax payers, across all levels of Government, efforts to strengthen local manufacturing help to lower the ongoing need for Government subsidies and lower costs for local production over the long term. That’s not to say that Government support isn’t vital to the longevity of manufacturing in Australia, however there are many ways in which consumers can save money when they buy good quality, locally made products.

By supporting local business, local jobs, environmental accountability, provisions for end of life disposal and demanding better made products that last longer, we can grow manufacturing industries that work in-sync with local retailers and continue to be part of the backbone of our communities.

Notely is proud to be an Australian-made, owned and loved brand that continues to prioritise local outcomes and empowering small business. We hope you love our sustainable, Australian-made range of notebooks, journals, cards and planners. Shop the range now! 

Photography on location in Notely’s Brisbane studio by Grace Elizabeth.