Background
Running from late 2025 to June 2026 across 23 sessions, the Industrial Sewing Program supported 19 newly arrived migrant women to build the skills and confidence needed for employment as machinists. All participants had completed all three levels of SECL’s sewing program prior to joining, and went on to develop hands-on industrial machine skills, practical knowledge of Australian working conditions, and meaningful social connections — all within a culturally safe environment.
Solution
The Industrial Sewing Program delivers a culturally safe and practical pathway to employment for women with foundational sewing skills. Building on SECL’s three-level sewing program, participants receive hands-on training with industrial sewing machines — the equipment required for work as a machinist — alongside education on Australian workplace expectations and rights. The program is enriched by partnerships with the Migrant Workers Centre, SECL’s financial counselling and family violence teams, and local employers including Selby’s and a blinds manufacturer — creating direct links between training and real employment opportunities.
Challenges
- Limited English proficiency restricting access to employment and support services
- Low awareness of employment services and how to access them
- No previous work experience in Australia
- Unfamiliarity with Australian workplace expectations
- No prior experience with industrial sewing machines
Outcomes
Employment pathways established
- Collaboration with diverse partners have enabled participants to access paid employment opportunities, often for the first time in their lives.
- 3 participants were referred to a blinds manufacturer — a pathway established from a connection to SECL’s Capacity Building Program.
- 4 selected participants were referred to Selby’s to undertake trials and interviews, further strengthening their job readiness.
- Afterwards 1 participant was successfully offered casual employment.
Skill & Business Development
- 100% of participants developed new skills and confidence operating an industrial sewing machine.
- 82% began mending or creating clothing at home.
- 73% of participants reported that the program had increased their confidence to start their own tailoring business.
Improved wellbeing & confidence
- 73% of participants reported that, after joining the program, their mental health had improved.
- 91% of participants reported that, after joining the program, they had made new friends and social connections.
- 91% shared that the program increased their confidence participate in paid work.
Engagement of other service agencies
- A ‘’Know Your Rights’’ information session was delivered in collaboration with the Migrant Workers Centre.
- Across the participants’ sewing journey, educational sessions about financial literacy, and family and sexual violence, were delivered by SECL’s Financial counselling team and family violence team.
- An excursion to a factory, Selby’s, with 18 participants provided valuable insight into the real workplace setting and further encouraged workforce participation.
- 91% participants reported that the program increased their knowledge about the support services available for them in the local community.
Impact
One participant transformed discarded curtains into blankets, saving an estimated $1,000: “Every time I see the blankets, I feel happy and proud.” Another confidently told her son: “Give me the money and I can do.” Many women now sew for their families, reducing expenses and building self-reliance. “The class makes us happy and saves money in small, small things — all because we have someone to guide us.”
Key Statistics
73% — Confidence to start own tailoring business
91% — Began mending or creating at home
100% — Developed new skills and confidence
7 — Employment referrals
1 — Participant offered casual employment
This program is part of our Settlement, Engagement and Transition Support (SETS) program funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs.