Last updated 19 October 2026.
Working out how many uniforms to give each employee is a balance between cost, hygiene and how often people work. Too few and staff end up in unwashed or mismatched gear. Too many and you've spent budget on shirts that sit in a cupboard.
There's no single right number for every business. This guide gives practical starting points many businesses use, and the questions to ask before you order.
How many uniforms should each employee get?
Many businesses start with three tops for each full-time employee: one to wear, one in the wash and one spare. Part-time and casual staff often start with two.
From there, adjust for how dirty the work gets, how many shifts people do and whether staff can wash uniforms between shifts. These are suggestions, not rules, and your award or agreement may set specific obligations (more on that below).
What is a sensible starting kit by role?
A starting kit usually includes everyday tops, one warm layer and headwear where it suits the job. The table below shows common starting points to adapt for your team.
| Role type | Everyday tops | Outer layer | Headwear |
|---|---|---|---|
| Office or client-facing, full-time | 3 polos or shirts | 1 jacket or knit | Optional |
| Trades or outdoor, full-time | 4–5 work shirts or hi-vis tops | 1 jacket or hoodie | 1 cap or bucket hat |
| Hospitality or retail, full-time | 3–4 tops | Optional | Optional |
| Part-time or casual | 2 tops | 1 if working outdoors or in winter | 1 if outdoors |
These are starting suggestions only. Your own rosters, work conditions and budget should shape the final numbers.
Why do trades and outdoor workers often need more?
Dirty, sweaty or physical work means tops get washed after every shift. With five shifts a week, three shirts can run short quickly if washing doesn't keep up.
For outdoor crews, many businesses add a cap or bucket hat and a warm layer for winter mornings. If the work involves traffic or moving plant, hi-vis may be required. That is a safety decision for the business, not a uniform choice. Browse our hi-vis range and check each product page for the class the manufacturer states the garment meets.
Do I have to provide uniforms to employees?
It depends on your award, enterprise agreement and the type of clothing. Some awards and agreements set rules about supplying uniforms, reimbursing costs or paying uniform and laundry allowances.
The Fair Work Ombudsman explains that payments for uniforms are set out in the applicable award or agreement. See their page on uniforms, vehicle and travel entitlements, and use their award finder to check yours.
Protective clothing is a separate question. Under work health and safety laws, personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hi-vis is provided by the business to workers, as Safe Work Australia explains. This article is general information, not legal advice. If you're unsure, check with Fair Work or an employment adviser.
How do I plan uniforms for new staff and turnover?
Many businesses keep a small stock of common sizes on hand so new starters can be kitted out on day one. Others reorder in small batches as people join.
Both approaches work. Keeping a few spares in your most common sizes avoids waiting for production when someone starts. Reordering in batches avoids paying for stock that may not be used.
Our minimum order is 5 decorated items, and you can mix sizes and colours, so a small top-up order for a couple of new starters plus spares is straightforward.
How does reordering work?
We keep your approved artwork on file, so your logo matches your earlier uniforms when you reorder. If you chose embroidery, the one-time $59 + GST setup isn't charged again when you reorder with the same logo.
Decoration prices stay simple. Embroidery is $12 + GST front and $20 + GST back. DTF printing is $10 + GST front and $20 + GST back, with no setup. Both are decorated in Australia.
It's worth choosing garments from established ranges if you plan to reorder over time, because core styles tend to stay available longer than seasonal colours. Our brands page lists the ranges we stock, including AS Colour, Biz Collection, Syzmik, JB's Wear, Winning Spirit, DNC Workwear, Workcraft and Legend Life.
How can I keep uniform costs under control?
Start with the core kit, then add extras once you see what staff actually wear. It is easier to top up than to sit on unused stock.
- Order a front logo only at first. Add back logos later if you need them.
- Order for the whole team at once to make the most of the flat $24.90 delivery.
- Look at fixed-price packs, like the $199 polo and cap deals: 3 polos or tees plus 3 caps or bucket hats with your logo for $199 + GST.
- Track sizes as you go, so reorders are quick.
How long does it take to get uniforms?
You get a free digital proof within 24 hours, and nothing is made until you approve it. Production usually takes 2–4 weeks after approval.
Delivery after despatch usually takes 3–7 working days to metro areas and 5–10 working days to regional areas. These are estimates, not guarantees, so plan ahead for new starters and busy seasons.
Common questions
How many shirts does a full-time employee need?
Many businesses start with three tops per full-time employee: one to wear, one in the wash and one spare. Physical or outdoor roles often need more.
Do I have to pay for my employees' uniforms?
It depends on your award or enterprise agreement. Some set rules about supplying uniforms or paying allowances. Check with the Fair Work Ombudsman for your situation.
Can I order a small number for a new starter?
The minimum order is 5 decorated items, and you can mix sizes and colours. Many businesses combine a new starter's kit with a few spares.
Will reorders match my first order?
We keep your approved artwork on file so reorders match. Embroidery setup isn't charged again for the same logo.
