Arthur Galan, Nicholas, Mariana Hardwick and Anna Thomas are among designer brands being targeted by the industry union.
The Textile Clothing and Footwear Union of Australia (TCFUA) has announced it is commencing court action against 23 clothing brands over alleged breaches of outworker laws.
The companies will join the ranks of over 170 other brands previously taken to court by the TCFUA over similar claims.
The TCFUA will allege the brands failed to meet minimum legal standards for workers in the clothing industry.
Outworkers have been a divisive issue in the sector for some time, with designers and even industry groups questioning the legislative framework.
In 2012, former TFIA chief Jo Kellock described tougher outworker laws as "unworkable".
"There are aspects that are proving to be unworkable and having a major impact on clothing manufacturers and home based businesses that are already under considerable competitive pressure," she said.
Iconic designer Jenny Bannister has also been vocal in questioning the union.
"Unionism doesn't work here in a cottage industry," she voiced on ragtrader.com.au
Many of the designers listed in the latest action were not aware of the TCFUA's plans when contacted by ragtrader.com.au.
Mariana Hardwick managing director Rebekah Hardwick said the company had not been contacted by TCFUA and would be happy to provide any information required.
"We are deeply shocked and saddened by the allegations made by the TCFUA. Our gowns are all made in house in our couture workroom.
"Our dressmakers get paid well above award wages and work in a 700 square meter purpose built Atelier, a beautiful environment were they are respected and cherished for the amazing skills they possess.
"Most of our dressmakers have been with the company for over 20 years.
"We have work tirelessly and against the odds to keep these jobs in Australia and to further develop the art of dressmaking.
"We have never pursued a policy of using outworkers.
"Nor have we ever paid our employee’s or contractors in piecework.
"It would be impossible to maintain the level of quality that we do without careful in house monitoring of all aspects of the gown construction process.
"We don’t know why we have been named as part of this class action."
TCFUA national secretary Michele O'Neil stood by the decision.
"Our union will not let companies who persist in breaching minimum award obligations get away with it."
Other brands in the action include Digby's, Viktoria & Woods, Drizabone, Mesop, Nevenka, Cubec, Very Very and Verducci.