Where to buy face masks that support Indigenous Australian communities
If you're looking to buy a face mask, consider shopping with the sites giving back to First Nations people.
The COVID-19 pandemic has seen demand for protective face masks surge as they become mandatory in some parts of Australia and highly recommended in others. And, while there are plenty of online stores selling masks, now is a great opportunity to support businesses that give back to First Nations people.
If you would like to show your support, we've rounded up a list of retailers below that will see your face mask purchase help Indigenous artists and communities.
1. Yarli Creative
Working alongside a team of manufactures, Yarli Creative founder and proud Yorta Yorta, Dja Dja Wurrung and Gamilaroi woman Madison Connors has crafted a range of washable cotton face masks. Each mask features original Aboriginal artwork and comes with a filter pocket and the recommended triple layer of fabric.
Yarli Creative will donate 40% of all pre-sale profits to Elizabeth Morgan House, which is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation that provides refuge accommodation and specialist family violence services to Aboriginal women and children.
The masks are currently available for $35 each.
2. Bundarra
Indigenous clothing manufacturer Bundarra has recently started selling face masks in a massive range of designs. Each covering features 100% authentic Indigenous artwork, meaning that your purchase will help to support Indigenous employment.
From traditional dot paint designs to quirky pizza slice styles, there are plenty of unique options to choose from, with each one retailing for $24.95.
The masks are composed of three layers and come with two PM 2.5 activated carbon filters and adjustable ear straps.
Designs are currently available for pre-order and are set to ship before 20 August.
3. Alperstein Designs
While Alperstein Designs is not an Indigenous-owned business, it does work alongside Aboriginal art centre Warlukurlangu Artists. Each mask sold by the site features licensed Indigenous artwork, which means that the artist is paid royalties for every purchase you make.
Mask designs retail for $15.95 and feature both adjustable nose wires and filter pockets.
While designs are selling fast, you can sign up to be notified the next time the site restocks.
4. Kangaroo Jack
Handmade in Melbourne, Kangaroo Jack's mask designs feature artwork by Indigenous artist Faye Oliver. Kangaroo Jack will donate 15% of face mask sales to not-for-profit Wadawurrung Indigenous Community, which facilitates Indigenous educational programs for Australian school students and disadvantaged Indigenous youths.
The face coverings come in breathable cotton designs with an interchangeable double layer and retail for $35 each.
5. Raintree Art
Raintree Art is currently selling face masks featuring artworks reproduced under licence from Warlukurlangu Artists, which is a 100% Aboriginal-owned not-for-profit organisation.
The 100% cotton masks have elastic ear loops and adjustable nose wires to help you achieve the perfect fit and retail for just $15 each.
The limited designs have been selling fast, with restock dates announced on the site's Facebook page.
More face masks guides and news
Main image: Instagram user yarli_creative
