Making a difference is stitched into everything we do.

From day one, High Tees has been a Social Enterprise.

We're a sustainable business out to create positive social impact while also making a profit.

We actually believe all businesses should come from this place - ethical, fair, sustainable and positively impactful. Alas, that world does not exist just yet. So, for now, we are doing our utmost to make the world a better place from our small corner of the beautiful earth we stand on. 

Through the sale of our apparel and accessories, we raise money for causes and charities that are near and dear to our hearts. 

At High Tees, we are passionate about

• Climate Change and Action
• Human Rights including gender equality, LGBTQI+ rights, asylum seeker and refugee rights, women's rights and protection of vulnerable people in our society. 
• Animal protection and environmental 
• The right to vote and peacefully participate in the democratic process
• To raise the voices of First Nation people where we can and to be an ally who are continuously learning and understanding. 
• We reserve our rights 

What is a Social Enterprise?

A Social Enterprise is an organisation whose primary existence is to deliver a beneficial impact — whether that’s social, environmental or cultural. It’s all about focusing on the common good and community benefit.

Here’s the difference:

• Social Enterprises generate their own revenue and profit through business activity (for us, that’s selling our T-shirts and accessories).

• Charities and not-for-profits rely heavily on donations.
  

So, while we trade like any other business, we exist specifically to make the world a better place.

To be classified as a Social Enterprise we need to adhere adhere to one of the following:

• is dedicated to serving a defined social, cultural, or environmental cause, aligned with public or community welfare. 

• Generates a significant income from trade while prioritising efforts and resources towards this purpose, ensuring the greater good outweighs personal gain.

How High Tees does it

• We donate over 50% of profits to our charity partners.

• We create culturally and socially significant art to highlight ideas, histories and people worth celebrating.

• All artwork is curated by West Melbourne artist, Jess McDonald, alongside occasional guest artists — giving creatives a platform and a revenue stream.

• We proudly design and print everything locally in Melbourne.

• We use ethically sourced materials and inks, certified child-labour free. Almost everything we do is 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton.

Partnerships that Matter

So far, thanks to our wonderful customers, High Tees has donated over $40,000 to charities making a real impact, including:

• West Welcome Wagon -providing material aid to asylum seekers and refugees in Melbourne's inner west. 

• GO Foundation - empowering Indigenous youth through education.

• WIRES Wildlife Rescue - helping Aussie animals in crisis.

• The Grace Tame Foundation - advocating for survivors of sexual assault.

• Friends with Dignity - supporting people affected by domestic violence.
  

• Australian Marine Conservation Society - protecting our oceans and reefs.

• Support Act - supporting musicians and music workers in need. 

Why it Matters

When you wear High Tees, you’re not just pulling on a T-shirt. You’re joining a movement of people who:

• Celebrate Australia’s icons and heroes

• Support local, ethical production

• Help fund charities creating positive change

It’s fashion that feels good, looks good, and does good.

So next time someone asks where your shirt’s from, you can say:
“High Tees. It’s a social enterprise — my T-shirt is saving the world."