Nurtura

Our supplier-review process

We use a supplier-review process to guide sourcing decisions. We ask suppliers about their manufacturing practices, labour standards, materials, product quality and relevant environmental considerations.

Depending on the supplier and product, we may request:

• information about working environments and factory conditions;
• details of materials, manufacturing and waste practices;
• product-safety, compliance or previous testing documentation;
• photographs, video calls or other supporting information; and
• clarification where an answer or document requires further context.

The type and depth of documentation available varies between suppliers, products and jurisdictions. Receiving information does not remove the need for judgement, and a document alone does not answer every question. We consider the overall picture rather than relying on a broad claim or single badge.

Practical transparency

International sourcing can limit direct visibility into every stage of a supply chain. We do not pretend otherwise. Our approach is to ask questions, seek evidence where it is relevant and available, pay attention to inconsistencies, and keep improving the information on which we make decisions.

If information raises a concern, cannot be reasonably clarified or does not align with the standards we are working towards, that forms part of our decision about whether and how to continue with a supplier.

Reducing reliance on long supply chains

Like many small Australian businesses, Nurtura currently sources some finished products and components internationally. At the same time, we are conscious of the reduced visibility and additional impacts that can accompany long supply chains.

Where practical, we aim to reduce that reliance over time by:

• exploring suitable Australian suppliers and makers;
• using local partners for packaging, printing, finishing touches and future accessories;
• simplifying our range and supply chain where that improves oversight;
• considering small-batch and made-with-purpose alternatives; and
• building longer-term relationships with responsive, transparent suppliers.

“Australian” and “international” are not automatic measures of whether a supplier is responsible. Our aim is to improve visibility, accountability and alignment wherever the work occurs.

A considered approach to range

Nurtura is intentionally not building an enormous catalogue of baby clothing and accessories simply for the sake of offering more. This is a considered choice shaped by our desire to avoid unnecessary products, excess inventory and avoidable participation in fast-fashion cycles.

Instead, we want each addition to have a clear role in the Nurtura experience. We will remain open to reusable, locally made, lower-waste, small-batch and other more responsible alternatives as the business develops.

Learning and accountability

We continue to learn from recognised responsible-business and human-rights resources. These include the Australian Government Modern Slavery Statements Register resources and the impact frameworks and resources developed by B Lab Australia & Aotearoa New Zealand.

Referring to these organisations does not mean that The Nurtura Co is a reporting entity under the Modern Slavery Act or a Certified B Corporation. They are identified as useful sources of learning and responsible-business guidance.

Collaboration and shared ideas

We welcome connection with makers, small businesses and thoughtful collaborators who share this approach.

We would particularly love to hear from people creating:

• handmade, sustainable or small-batch accessories suitable for Nurtura Babies;
• locally produced packaging or printed materials;
• reusable or lower-waste presentation solutions; or
• other considered products or ideas that could strengthen the Nurtura experience without creating unnecessary excess.

Every opportunity still needs to be assessed for suitability, quality, safety, capacity and brand alignment, but we are always open to a thoughtful conversation.

Our continuing commitment

We are committed to asking better questions and making more responsible sourcing decisions wherever we can. We will keep reviewing our process as Nurtura grows and update this page when our practices materially change.