As a founding Australian member in 2008 of the Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI), which is an independent and internationally recognised code of labour practice, founded on the conventions of the International Labour Organisation, annually discloses its ethical sourcing program to the ETI, including continuous improvement initiatives.

[9] ETI members must adopt their principles of implementation, which set out the approach to ethical trade, including the requirements for companies to demonstrate a clear commitment to integrate ethical trade into their core business practices; to drive ongoing improvements to worker welfare and working conditions, for example through advice and training; and report openly and accurately about their activities.

In 2009, the board of Pacific Brands announced the redundancy of 1,850 employees,[11] as part of a plan to move manufacturing operations to China.

The Ethical Trading Initiative's base code includes a living wage provision, for companies to pay enough for workers to meet basic needs and to provide some discretionary income.[12][relevant?]

Under the new rule, a company will be obliged to hold a spill vote of its board if its remuneration report is not supported by 75% or more shareholders for two years in a row.