Fair Trade Association of Australia and New Zealand Incorporated

Overview

The Fair Trade Association of Australia and New Zealand Incorporated is a member-driven not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting fair trade practices across Australia and New Zealand. Founded in 2003, it aims to alleviate poverty and empower communities by advocating for fair pricing, improved market access, and sustainable international trade practices.

Mission and Objectives

The association seeks to be the authoritative voice for fair trade in the region, ensuring that its principles are upheld to combat poverty and injustice through ethical trade practices. It works closely with businesses, community groups, and individuals to deliver market access for fair trade products and services. Key activities include coordination, support in campaigning, education, policy advocacy, endorsement, and monitoring.

Membership and Structure

The Fair Trade Association is governed by an Executive Committee elected annually during its Annual General Meeting (AGM). Membership is open to any organization or individual supporting fair trade principles, including development NGOs, social justice organizations, environmental groups, human rights advocates, businesses, alternative trade organizations, researchers, and interested individuals.

Affiliations and Certification

The association is affiliated with the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO), which comprises over 450 members worldwide. It also supports the Fairtrade certification system managed by Fairtrade Australia and New Zealand. Additionally, the association manages its own endorsement system known as Fair Traders of Australia, based on the 10 Principles of Fair Trade.

Activities and Initiatives

The Fair Trade Association promotes awareness and facilitates fair trade activities, particularly assisting producers from developing countries in accessing Australian and New Zealand markets. It actively supports local initiatives by endorsing Fair Trade Communities such as councils, universities, workplaces, faith groups, and schools that demonstrate a commitment to fair trade principles.

Regional Impact

By fostering greater awareness and coordination of fair trade practices, the association plays a crucial role in advocating for sustainable and equitable trade within the Asia-Pacific region. Its work contributes to the broader global fair trade movement by challenging conventional trade norms and promoting economic justice for marginalized communities.

References

(Note: References should be included if specific sources are used, but they are not provided here.)

[1] https://fta.org.au [2] https://fairtradeanz.org [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fair_Trade_Association_of_Australia_and_New_Zealand [4] https://wfto.com/members/fair-trade-association-of-australia-and-new-zealand-ftaanz/ [5] http://friendfiji.com/fair-trade/