Some factory-based manufacturers already pay award wages, but this does not make the cost of garments too expensive for consumers. Demand for clothing remains fairly constant. If workers are not pushed to work 16 to 20 hours a day, in order to survive, there may be more jobs available. Ideally, if all received their proper award wages, some would be able to received further training in language and skills. This would offer home-based outworkers the option to move into other vocational areas.
Garments made by home-based outworkers are strongly related to fashion trends.
Research suggests that most women's fashion will continue to be made in Australia, as imports do not reach our market quickly enough. This makes it unlikely that more production would go offshore. Ending the exploitation of homeworkers requires the cooperation of all aspects of the industry. Retailers and manufacturers who have signed the Homeworkers Code of Practice have demonstrated their intention to solving this problem. They can demonstrate their commitment by becoming accredited under the Code and putting the 'No Sweat Shop' label in their garments.