Providing a mechanism for workers to raise concerns is an important component of Bunnings’ Ethical Sourcing Program. Audit and risk assessment results can be further validated and issues outside the standard audit program can be identified and managed. 

In the 2020 financial year, Bunnings began trialling the Speak Up grievance mechanism for supply chain workers, and in the 2021 financial year, 119 factories across China participated in the trial. The Speak Up mechanism is an anonymous service managed by a third-party and can be accessed by factory workers via several channels including a website, posters, a local telephone number and email. Bunnings also has posters displayed in supplier factories and provides business cards in the local language to notify supply chain workers of the Speak Up Program. This initiative is aligned with Bunnings’ Ethical Sourcing Code of Conduct, which requires suppliers to clearly explain the availability of a grievance mechanism in worker contracts.  

In response to worker feedback, Bunnings delivered an online training module that provided practical advice and guidance to factory management teams about how to effectively manage production needs and working hours. The training was free to all factories involved in the Speak Up trial and was provided in English and Mandarin.   

During the financial year, Bunnings also expanded Speak Up to include in-store service providers such as cleaners and security guards working across Bunnings operations in Australia and New Zealand. Posters in four languages were placed in cleaning cupboards and team facilities at all Bunnings stores across Australia and New Zealand.   

Bunnings will continue to evolve the Speak Up program over the coming year to include additional supply chain workers to ensure it is accessible and contributing towards positive change.