‘Too far’: LGBTQI+, Indigenous stickers banned in controversial change outlined in leaked Woolworths dress code memo

Workers at Woolworths will no longer be permitted to wear Indigenous or LGBTQI+ stickers on their badges, according to a leaked memo on dress code which has stirred outrage from some workers.

The company memo, first reported by 7 News on Saturday, states the sartorial changes have come about due to “recently observed instance of poor dress standards that may pose a potential food safety risk and/or injury in our stores.”

“Following store visits and team feedback, we have reviewed and revised our Dress Standards guidelines to reflect guidance and expectations for our team,” the memo from February 19 states.

While earlier team members could wear stickers on their badges showing the flag of Indigenous or LGBTQI+ Australians, Woolworths now says: “Display your name badge on top of the handy green dots on your garments. Keep your name badge clean and tidy. No stickers are to be added to your badge.”

One worker told 7 News the badge change went “too far”.

“On our badges, we have stickers that they encouraged us to wear,” he said.

“The stickers are the Indigenous flag, LGBT flag and the LGBT Ally flag sticker.

“Now they want us to remove all stickers on our badges.”

NCA NewsWire understands the changes are a “preferred dress code” and do not stipulate absolute rules.

It is understood the purpose of the name badge is to display the team member’s name and that is why the company wants it to be kept clean and clear of stickers.

Other changes to the dress code include guidelines on bottoms and polo shirts.

Team members must wear a black polo, either a Woolworths polo or their own, and avoid wearing brand logos.

“Black or dark coloured pants, skirts and knee length shorts are perfect,” the memo states.

“Leave your ripped pants, gym leggings or any bottoms with other visible brand logos at home.

“Layer up with a green Woolworths jacket, vest or black jumper to keep you warm.

“Hoodies and outerwear with other brand logos are not permitted.”

ASX-listed Woolworths is Australia’s largest food retailer and boasts more than 190,000 team members across Australia and New Zealand.

The company has struggled through a series of public relations challenges in 2024.

Some community members called for a boycott of the retailer earlier in the year after it announced it would not sell Australia Day merchandise for the January 26 Public Holiday.

An upcoming Senate inquiry will also test whether Woolworths has engaged in price gouging practices and consumer sentiment about the legendary brand has plummeted as cost-of-living pressures bite at the checkout

CEO Brad Banducci announced his shock retirement on Wednesday morning after nearly nine years at the helm.

Amanda Bardwell, the former head of WooliesX, will replace Mr Banducci as CEO in September.