Fair Trade

What is Fair Trade?

Fairtrade is about better prices, decent working conditions, local sustainability, and fair terms of trade for farmers and workers in the developing world. By requiring companies to pay sustainable prices, Fairtrade addresses the injustices of conventional trade, which traditionally discriminates against the poorest, weakest producers. It enables them to improve their position and have more control over their lives.

Whitehorse City Council has resolved to become a Fair Trade Council and encourages all local businesses to be involved. Residents and traders can participate by purchasing products with the Fair Trade label as well as supporting organisations that are accredited as Fair Trade companies.

Fair Trade is a growing international movement that ensures farmers and producers within poor and developing countries receive a fair price.  The Fair Trade philosophy is not about stopping the sale of non-fair trade products, but increasing the sale of products produced in an ethical and sustainable manner from developing countries.  Council’s decision to become a Fair Trade council is consistent with the objectives in Whitehorse Sustainability Strategy 2008-2013.  Not only will Council be thinking locally but also help less fortunate communities overseas.

There are a number of local businesses and organisations that currently supply and promote Fair Trade products and have volunteered their time to the Fair Trade Community Steering Group. The steering group met for the first time late 2009 and identified a number of expectations for the group including:
• Raise Awareness about Fair Trade – with emphasis on holding event(s)
• Increase product availability in local shops
• Increase number of interested organisations to join the Fair Trade Association
• Encourage the use Fair Trade products in local enterprises such as Schools, Faith Groups, and Councils etc.

Fair Trade Resources:

Fair Trade Association – Australia                                                                                                
Postal: PO Box 306, Flinders Lane PO, VIC, 8009
Phone: +61 (0)3 9662 2919                                                              
Fax: +61 (0)3 9663 3482                                                                        
Email: info@fairtrade.com.au
Website: http://www.fta.org.au/about
                                                         
Make the switch to Fair Trade
If you are a Fair Trade business or if you stock Fair Trade products and would like to get involved in the Steering Group or find out more about Fair Trade please phone 9262 6159.

Click here to download a copy of the Fairtrade Christmas Guide.

Click here to download the list of Business Suppliers where you can purchase Fair Trade products for your business needs.