Frequently Asked Questions
Certifications and Accreditations
Are all your products Fair Trade Certified?
The majority of our products are officially Fair Trade Certified and carry internationally recognised ethical and sustainability certifications.
These certifications include Fairtrade, the Fair Trade Association of Australia and New Zealand, the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), the Indigenous Art Code, B Corp and the World Fair Trade Organisation (WFTO).
Many fair trade producers are small, grassroots maker communities. For these organisations, the cost of becoming officially Fair Trade Certified can be considerable and may not be financially accessible.
We consider this important barrier when selecting the fair trade products we stock. If a supplier does not hold a current Fairtrade certification, we assess whether their business practices reflect the 10 Principles of Fair Trade and look for supporting evidence.
Our range also includes products made with natural ingredients, as well as items from small-batch suppliers.Respect for the environment is one of the principles of fair trade, so we believe these products complement our ethical and sustainable range.
We also support small organisations that are B Corp certified, along with social enterprises that create positive social and environmental change.
What are the Ten Principles of Fair Trade and why do they matter?
The Ten Principles of Fair Trade provide a framework for ethical and sustainable trading.
They promote opportunities for disadvantaged producers, transparency, fair trading practices, fair payment, no child or forced labour, gender equality, safe working conditions, the development of skills, promotion of Fair Trade, and respect for the environment.
These principles help ensure that products are made in ways that support producers, workers, communities and the planet.
Learn more from the Fair Trade Association of Australia and New Zealand here:
Where can I learn more about the makers of your products?
Many of the makers and artisans we work with have been with us for many years. We also enjoy making new connections and have added to our community.
You can read about the makers and artisans we work with on our blog Artisans and The Fair Trader. https://thefairtraderstore.com.au/blogs/in-the-making-artisans-we-support
We are always interested in connecting with new suppliers, if you have a referral, let us know.
What materials are your products made from?
We stock many carefully selected items and almost all are made from natural or recycled materials.
We support makers from many sectors who use materials that are by-products discarded by larger industries.
You can learn more about the materials used on our Sustainability
Returns, Cancellations, Queries
You can read our returns policy here.
Do you accept returns for sale items?
We don't accept returns for reduced items.
What items are exempt from being returned?
We cannot accept returns for food, earrings, lip balm, Gift Cards or sale items.
What should I do if my item is faulty or defective?
We never intend to send damaged items. If we spot an issue with your order before shipping, we'll email you and suggest a replacement or refund.
If you believe your order is defective, please email us right away.
Please do not send your purchase back to the manufacturer, contact us immediately.
Shipping, Collection and Delivery
How long will it take to receive my order?
We aim to ship your order within 3-5 business days of purchase. Once your order has been fulfilled you will receive an email confirmation and a tracking number.
During Christmas and Sale Periods it might take a little longer to process your order. We appreciate your patience during these busier times.
We advise customers to allow 3-8 business days from dispatch to Australian metropolitan areas. Delivery times to regional areas may vary.
Please refer to Australia Post for current information about delivery times within Australia and to New Zealand.
Express Post through Australia Post is the fastest way to receive your parcel. However please note that next day delivery is currently not guaranteed. Visit the Australia Post website for updates on Express Delivery Times.
If you do not receive your order within these time periods, let us know and we will investigate.
Do you offer Click & Collect?
Yes, we offer free Click and Collect in Brisbane.
Between 9 – 3pm you can collect your items from Level 7 154 Melbourne Street South Brisbane. Please note this is an office and not a retail space. Your order will be left for you with the friendly receptionists. You will receive an email when your order is ready for collection, usually within 2 days.
Simply select 'Pick Up at South Brisbane' at checkout.
Alternatively we also have a retail space at Empire Revival on La Trobe Terrace, Paddington. If you would like to collect from here let us know in the notes and we will arrange to leave your purchase at the front counter for you.
Do you deliver orders?
Generally we do not, however if your order is large this can be arranged, please contact us to discuss as there may be a small fee associated.
Alternatively we will give consideration to special circumstances, just contact us to discuss.
Do you ship internationally?
We ship to Australia, New Zealand and the United States.
If you have any other shipping requirements we are open to discussing options.
What packaging do you use?
We prioritise sustainably responsible shipping materials and purchase supplies from suppliers who use recycled and eco-friendly materials.
We also re-use shipping boxes and packing materials from time to time in order to reduce costs and landfill. We also are gifted supplies as well and make use of these where appropriate.
Gift Vouchers
Do you offer Gift Vouchers?
You can purchase The Fair Trader Gift Vouchers here.
Where is my Digital Gift Card?
Our Digital Gift Cards are sent automatically by email when you order them, and usually received without a problem.
If you ordered a Gift Card but have not received it, please check your Junk or Spam folder first.
If you still can't find it, email us with your Order Number and we'll aim to rectify the issue as soon as possible.
Hampers & Corporate Gifts
Where can I view your hampers and corporate gifts?
Browse through our hampers and gift packs here.
Can I order a custom hamper or corporate gift?
Please email us here and for all custom hamper and corporate gift enquiries.
Don't forget to include your budget and how many hampers/gifts your business or organisation requires.
Still have a question?
If we haven't answered your question, please don't hesitate to reach out via our contact page here.