UPDATE: An astounding $25 billion worth of unworn clothing is currently stagnant in Australian wardrobes, according to new research from the Australian Red Cross and Uber. In a significant push to address this issue, the annual clothing drive launched today, collecting 27,000 kg of garments across major cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth.
The alarming statistic reveals that 231 million garments are lying idle nationwide, enough to fill 139 swimming pools or cover 42 football fields. “The nation is holding onto billions of dollars worth of clothes that can be helping people in need,” stated Richard Wood, spokesman for the Australian Red Cross, emphasizing the urgency for donations.
This year marks the seventh iteration of the partnership between Red Cross and Uber, which aims to simplify the donation process by providing free Uber couriers to collect pre-loved clothes. “Every item helps stock our Australian Red Cross Shops, which directly fund our humanitarian programs to support some of our most vulnerable communities,” Wood added.
The drive, which runs until 4 PM today, is designed to remove barriers that typically hinder clothing donations. A recent survey revealed that nearly two-thirds of participants would donate more if the process were more convenient. “We know that in our busy lives, convenience is often the missing link when it comes to donating clothes,” said Emma Foley, Uber’s boss.
During the 2024 clothing drive, an impressive 88 tonnes of clothing were collected, highlighting the potential impact of this initiative. However, the survey of 2,000 people also uncovered concerning trends in donation habits, with over a third admitting to leaving clothes outside shops after hours, risking them being discarded. Additionally, almost one in five admitted to donating items that weren’t suitable for sale.
This year’s campaign aims to clarify what items are acceptable for donation, addressing the confusion that often leads to poor donation practices. “We see the impact these donations make every day, and all Aussies can be a part of this,” Wood reiterated, calling for immediate action from the public.
As the clock ticks down on the drive, Australians are urged to take advantage of the free collection service through the Uber app. This is an opportunity not only to declutter wardrobes but also to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.
Time is of the essence—donate today to contribute to a cause that supports vulnerable communities and reduces the staggering amount of unworn clothing in Australia.
