Skepticism still exists over Australia's ability to develop and monitor a national sizing standard, according to documents submitted to the federal government.
The government's recommendation to allocate $5 million from the 2009 budget to develop "as a matter of urgency" a sizing standard has been met with caution by at least three independent groups, all of which questioned whether it should be made mandatory.
The proposal was one of 15 contained in Professor Roy Green's 'Building Innovative Capability' report, the result of a complete review of Australia's textiles, clothing and footwear industry.
Following the removal of Australian sizing standards some time ago there is currently no reliable data available to serve apparel manufacturers or other sectors that rely on body measurement.
While the overwhelming majority of submitters supported the suggestion, Footwear Manufacturers' Association of Australia executive director Peter Eames came out strongly against the proposal, slamming it as "inadequate in practice and concept".
"There is no practical way to develop a one-sizing standard fits all methodology nor is there a way to practically enforce such a measure." Eames suggested the money allocated for the proposed project should be redirected back to a new industry group.
Both fabric supply business Standard Universal Group and industry consultancy group TCF Services felt similarly. While each admitted there was merit in developing a new sizing standard, Universal's financial controller Mohan Wijeyamohan argued enforcement would have to cover imported merchandise while TCF Services' Gerry Frittman said the standard should still be developed but not be made into law.
"Unless there is some enforcement and penalising of those not adhering to the proposed standard, including imported merchandise, such a measure is likely to be ineffectual," Wijeyamohan stated.
Pacific Brands chief executive officer Sue Morphet, Council of Textile and Fashion Industries Jo Kellock, Canon Fashion managing director Roula Gavalas, Australian Fashion Partners' managing director Dominic Beirne and Fashion Technicians Association Australia president Toni Stalls were among those who offered ringing endorsements for the recommendation.
Morphet, who oversees a host of brands including Bonds, Berlei, Holeproof, Rio, King Gee and Jockey, said the benefits were obvious.
"We fully understand the value and necessity of accurate information on which to base technical product design decisions in the manufacture of apparel and other consumer goods. We urge you to make funds available for the study."
A decision has yet to be made on when the recommendations contained in the report will be tabled.