Which program is right for me?
The Social Outfit is a fashion label with a difference.
As a social enterprise and charity we offer sewing and retail training programs for women from refugee backgrounds and CALD migrant communities. These programs support social wellbeing, skills development and pathways to employment.
To help you find the programs that are right for you, please select the statement that best descibes your situation.
>> I am new to Australia and I would like to learn sewing and crafts.
Our Community Engagement Programs are best for you!
These entry level classes focus on hand sewing, basic machine sewing, arts and crafts. You will get to practice your English whilst being creative, learning new skills, meeting new friends and having fun!
Our Community Engagement Programs delivered in partnership with other communtiy services and they are most often held in Western Sydney during school terms.
View current Community Engagement Programs here.
>> I have good sewing skills and I want to learn more and/or progress my skills for working in the industry.
Industrial Sewing Training is best for you!
These classes are delivered on an industrial sewing machine and usually run for 1 day per week for 8-10 weeks in The Social Outfit's workroom in Marrickville (a short walk from Sydenham station).
To join this class you must have strong sewing skills on a domestic sewing machine or some basic expereince on an industrial machine.
View current Industrial Sewing Training classes here
>> I have excellent professional sewing skills and/or have worked as a sewer overseas. I am confident sewing on an industrial machine.
Earn and Learn Sewing Programs are best for you!
These classes are designed to offer paid work experience for newly arrived refuge and CALD migrant women. You will be paid the Australian textile award rate to learn how to make items that will be sold though The Social Outfit store.
We usually run two Earn and Learn programs each year in collaboration with leading artists, fashion deisgners or brands.
View upcoming Earn and Learn Programs here.
>> I am a young refugee women (18-29) and I am looking for a first Australian job in retail.
Our Retail Training Program, is best for you!
This program offers 12 weeks of paid work experience in The Social Outfit's retail store in Newtown, Sydney. In addition to your shifts, you will complete our 12 module online retail training, job readiness training, industry excursions, and have the support of a mentor to support you in gaining ongoing employment after you graduate from the program.