Griffith City Council Approves Flannelette Shirts in Dress Code

Griffith Council Dress Code Debate Concludes

Griffith City Council in southern NSW recently concluded a debate regarding its councillor dress code, ultimately voting to permit flannelette shirts during meetings. The decision followed a proposal late last year to establish 'business casual' as the standard, including the provision of blazers for councillors.

The Griffith City Council ultimately voted to permit flannelette shirts during meetings.

Background to the Discussion

A submission during the debate suggested that attire such as a "clean flannelette shirt and jeans" might not meet the proposed 'business casual' standard. Councillor Mark Dal Bon, who has consistently worn a black and white plaid shirt, expressed that his choice of attire makes him feel confident in representing his community and that he had received no complaints from residents regarding his presentation.

Broader Workplace Attire Trends

The council's debate prompted wider community discussion on the evolving nature of work wardrobes. Research from employment site Indeed, released in August 2025, indicated a considerable increase in job advertisements promoting relaxed dress standards in recent years, particularly in the ACT and Queensland, with remote work influencing demand for comfortable workplace attire.

Expert Perspectives on Professional Attire

Corporate stylist Kim Crowley noted that work attire standards have become a 'grey area'. She suggested that political figures, especially in rural areas, benefit from reflecting their constituents. Crowley cited 'enclothed cognition' research, which posits that dressing professionally can enhance cognitive performance. She also acknowledged a 'middle ground' between formal suits and overly casual wear, which people often miss.

Corporate stylist Kim Crowley noted that work attire standards have become a 'grey area'.

Etiquette expert Amanda King from the Australian Finishing School observed a trend toward more casual work attire over the years. King argued that a more formal approach to workwear fosters respect and trust, allowing individuals to have greater impact and influence in their roles. However, Mr. Dal Bon maintains that comfort in attire contributes to professionalism, a view aligned with the council's ultimate decision to allow flannelette shirts.