A new Four Paws study has found that 84% of Aussie consumers agree that companies should make animal protection a key priority alongside environmental protection and social standards.
The global study, which surveyed 14,000 consumers across 12 markets, also found that 59% of Aussies agree fashion brands should be transparent about their standards when it comes to animal welfare, with one in three Australians saying they would choose one fashion brand over another if they prioritise animal welfare.
Meanwhile, 71% of the 1,060 Australian respondents said retailers that use wool should phase out mulesed sheep wool from their collections.
When it comes to the animal products that are most concerning to Australian shoppers, fur (71%) was most concerning to Aussies, followed by exotic leather (61%), domestic leather (50%), down feathers (50%) and wool (35%).
"The survey results show consumers increasingly expect brands to ensure the welfare of the animals used within their supply chains," Four Paws global corporate engagement manager - textiles Jessica Medcalf said.
"Brands acting in this way, are more likely to resonate well with consumers.
"Though the results are encouraging we need more people to be aware of animal cruelty when buying textiles, more transparency within animal supply chains, and to achieve good animal welfare outcomes, a reduction in the use of animal-derived materials overall," she said.
Key global findings from the study indicate that since the pandemic started, 31% of shoppers are seeking products with high animal welfare credentials or avoiding animal-based products all together.
The research also found that 64% of consumers are aware of animal cruelty in the fashion industry and 37% choose one fashion brand over another if they prioritise animal welfare.