I’m living in NSW
I’m sewing at home for 27 years.
My husband brought me to Australia, I can’t speak English, I didn’t know what to do. My sister in-law sewing at home, and I asked her to teach me how to sew for few months and started took garments and sew at home when I have my daughter 1997.
I did all kinds of work. First was easy and simple garments, and by many years experience I can make any work. I can make fashion dresses for big labels or make sample.
I always stayed home. In the morning, I prepared everything for the kids go to school and cook for husband go to work. Then I started sewing until afternoon.When the kids is home, I look after them and I prepared dinner for family. After housework finished I got back to sew again until midnight. Sometimes very late or I asked help from the family members because I did made a mistake or urgent work.
It’s hard job, they paid low, I had no choice, but I was happy because it’s suitable job for me to look after my family and earned some income.
I knew TCF Union before, but employer manipulated me, I scared to lose my job. I close my door and I decided not to speak up. I think many other people out there the same as me.
After long time convincing by OWOR officer, I understanding what Right for Outworker is get treat as a worker in the factory. I realised they under paid me is not right, and I didn’t get any Legal Right for outworker.
I disappointed that I didn’t trust TCF Union or hear anything about ECA accredited business before.
My favourite thing about my job is I can still work at home to look after the family, work less hours as permanent part time but I can get pay right wage and super and many more. The best thing is secure job.
