First Intake: July 2026
Get paid to learn a trade that is disappearing.
Most clothing sold in Australia is made overseas. The skills to make it here are almost gone. RFA Pathways is how we change that — one student at a time, on our production floor in Melbourne.
With roots firmly planted in Australian manufacturing since 1988, we continue to uphold the standards of quality and durability that define our heritage.
You work. You get paid. You learn skills most people in this country no longer have.
Scheduled around your uni or TAFE timetable, you will spend time on our Clayton South floor learning garment construction from the ground up. Lockstitch, overlocking, heat pressing, reflective tape application, seam sealing, quality finishing. The works.
By the time you finish, you will know how to build a garment from scratch on professional industrial equipment — not a classroom mock-up.
The work you do here isn’t just for show. It goes to real people who rely on it, which makes what you’re doing feel a bit more meaningful.
The products you help make go to Victoria Police, Fire Rescue Victoria, Australian Border Force, and Australian Defence Apparel. This is not fashion. This is safety gear for the people who need to be seen.
We are growing. As our order volume increases, so does our team. Students who perform well and want to stay on will be considered for full-time positions when they finish studying. This programme exists because we need skilled people — and we would rather train them ourselves.
RFA has been manufacturing in Melbourne since 1988. ECA accredited. Authorised 3M Distributor. 100% Australian made. There are very few places left in this country where you can learn these skills on a real production floor. This is one of them.
Make sure you meet the following:
You are currently enrolled at a university or TAFE
You have basic experience on an industrial sewing machine
You have full work rights in Australia — student visas with work rights attached are welcome
You are available to work part time from July 2026
You have a genuine interest in garment manufacturing, printing, or design
Spots are limited. Applications close 15th of June 2026.
Reflective Fabrications of Australia is an all Australian company specialising in the design, development and manufacture of safety wear, safety signs and related safety items.
Tel: 1300 241 855
34 Murdock Street, South Clayton VIC 3169, Australia
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