In a bold move that has sparked both applause and debate, Griffith City Council has officially declared flannelette shirts as acceptable business attire. This decision comes after a heated discussion surrounding the dress code for councillors, particularly Mark Dal Bon, who insists his signature black and white plaid shirt is not just a fashion choice but a symbol of his connection to the community. 'They’ve always seen me like this,' he explains, 'and it gives me the confidence to advocate for their issues at council meetings.' But here's where it gets controversial: while the council ultimately voted in favor of flannelette shirts, the debate has ignited a broader conversation about the evolving nature of workplace attire—and not everyone agrees.
Is a flannelette shirt and jeans combo truly 'business casual'? One submission to the council argued it might fall short of the mark, but Dal Bon counters that professionalism should be measured by cleanliness and presentation, not formality. 'I wouldn’t show up in singlets, thongs, and shorts,' he clarifies, 'but in my flannelette, I feel comfortable and look neat. The community hasn’t complained.' This raises a thought-provoking question: Does dressing to reflect your constituency undermine professionalism, or does it strengthen trust and relatability?
The shift toward relaxed dress codes isn’t limited to Griffith. Economic research from Indeed, released in August 2025, reveals a significant rise in job ads promoting casual attire, particularly in the ACT and Queensland. Remote work has fueled this trend, with employees prioritizing comfort over traditional office wear. Corporate stylist Kim Crowley notes that politicians, especially in rural areas, are uniquely positioned to balance reliability and professionalism. 'Reflecting your people back at them is key,' she says. However, she warns that old-fashioned suits can come off as too assertive in communities where outdoor work is the norm.
And this is the part most people miss: Crowley highlights the concept of 'enclothed cognition,' which suggests clothing can impact performance. 'Dressing professionally can boost cognitive behavior,' she explains. 'But there’s a grey area—what’s too casual, and what’s just right?' Amanda King from the Australian Finishing School agrees that while Australia is known for its casual culture, effort and respect still matter. 'Dressing well can enhance your influence,' she says. 'People treat you better and trust you more.'
Yet, for Dal Bon, his flannelette shirts are here to stay. 'Comfort brings out professionalism,' he insists. But what do you think? Is the flannelette shirt a step too far, or is it the perfect blend of relatability and professionalism? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over.
