Australian Non-Profit Organisations’ Advocacy Strategies, Policies and Practices regarding Labour Standards in Supply Chains

Abstract

This study examines advocacy approaches and strategies used by Australian non-profit organisations (NPOs) to address labour rights in supply chains. It investigates how internal and external factors contribute to short- and medium-term output, leading to changes in policy and practice. Drawing on social movement theory, stakeholder theory, resource dependence and neo-institutionalism, this thesis investigates the shared responsibility approach Australian NPOs advocate and the challenges they face. It highlights the important role stakeholders and networks play in influencing policy. Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) is used to analyse these NPOs’ strategies, using data collected from websites, internal documents and interviews. QCA is also employed as an exploratory tool to identify the necessary conditions and causal pathways leading to anticipated changes and outcomes. This thesis contributes to the debates and growing literature related to civil society and its approaches, including labour rights regulation in supply chains in the present dynamic global arena. It suggests that internal features, such as professionalism, sufficient funding, consistency and prioritising advocated issues, are at the heart of successful campaigns. Moreover, external conditions are also important. These include belonging to a coalition, using collaborative strategies and providing legislative support to improve labour standards in supply chains.