SisterWorks
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We are proud to announce that SisterWorks, in collaboration with Yarra Trams, has been honoured with the Social Traders Social Procurement Impact Partnership Award. This prestigious accolade recognises our Shared Value Partnership (SVP), a groundbreaking initiative in social and sustainable procurement.

A Pioneering Partnership

Our journey with Yarra Trams began in 2022 through their Community Partnership Program. What started as an initial engagement has since evolved into a dynamic and impactful SVP that benefits both organisations. The partnership has seamlessly integrated SisterWorks' core services into Yarra Trams' operations, helping to advance Yarra Trams' social procurement goals while also generating new revenue streams for SisterWorks. From catering services and textile supply to tram seat refurbishment and upcycling projects, this collaboration has set new standards in social and sustainable procurement.


Driving Innovation and Capacity Building

The SVP leverages Yarra Trams’ resources and SisterWorks’ strengths to unlock new opportunities and drive innovation. SisterWorks has expanded into the rail industry, upcycling tram seat fabric into official Yarra Trams merchandise and collaborating with Aboriginal business A2B Consumables to enhance the scope of our work. These initiatives have not only diversified our offerings but have also doubled our embroidery capacity and created new regional jobs, showcasing the far-reaching impact of this partnership.

Employment opportunities have been a cornerstone of the SVP, with the creation of 833 hours of employment for priority jobseekers annually. This has resulted in a significant social and economic impact, contributing an estimated $125,000 each year. Furthermore, the partnership has played a vital role in building technical skills and providing essential safety expertise, particularly in the manufacturing of wheel shunts, which are critical to rail safety.

Advocacy and Growth

Beyond the operational achievements, our partnership with Yarra Trams has driven new social procurement opportunities and fostered mutual growth. Initiatives like the ‘Sisters in Rail Program’ are designed to develop entrepreneurship awareness within the rail sector, creating new pathways for career growth and business development for our participants. Additionally, Yarra Trams has facilitated introductions to new partners, further enhancing the collaboration and amplifying its impact.

Impact and Future Prospects

The SVP has made a significant impact across multiple dimensions:

  • Social Impact: The partnership has created 833 hours of employment for priority jobseekers, generating a $125,000 annual social and economic impact.

  • Environmental Impact: We have successfully diverted over 4 tonnes of waste from landfills annually through our textile repurposing efforts, significantly reducing our environmental footprint.

  • Capability Development: SisterWorks has gained essential skills in rail safety and manufacturing, enhancing our operational capabilities and preparing us for future opportunities.

  • Economic Impact: The SVP is projected to boost SisterWorks' Social Enterprise revenue by 15% annually, contributing to our long-term sustainability and the continued growth of our mission.


Winning the Social Traders Social Procurement Impact Partnership of the Year Award is a testament to the power of strategic partnerships in driving positive change. The collaboration between SisterWorks and Yarra Trams not only demonstrates the tangible benefits of social procurement but also serves as an inspiring example of how organisations can work together to create meaningful social and environmental outcomes.

We look forward to continuing our journey with Yarra Trams, exploring new opportunities for social impact, and welcoming other like-minded organisations to join us in this transformative work. Together, we can build a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous future for all.

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