The company can trace its origins back to 1870 when the Galt family commenced manufacturing in Melbourne.

Tontine Fibres is a division of United Bonded Fabrics a separate company manufacturing polyester insulation, air filtration, carpet underlays, geotextiles and a range of mattress and furniture comfort products and using the Tontine trademark under license.

"In other countries there is no market leader because manufacturers tended to stay in their local areas.

For example, an Australian legal newsletter said of an alleged swindler who padded his timesheets "that at one stage pillow makers Tontine were said to be interested in sponsoring him.

"[5] Duvets in Australia are known by the genericized trademark "Doona"; the brand name is owned by the Tontine Group.