Hi-Vis Work Shirts — AS/NZS 4602.1:2011 Compliant, Australia

Hi-visibility work shirts are mandatory on most Australian construction sites, road works, mining operations, and any workplace where workers are at risk from moving vehicles or machinery. Outback Cobber's hi-vis shirts meet the AS/NZS 4602.1:2011 compliance standard and are available in yellow/navy and orange/navy colourways for both day and combined day/night wear. They can also be custom branded with embroidery or heat transfer for your business.

What Is AS/NZS 4602.1:2011?

AS/NZS 4602.1:2011 is the Australian and New Zealand standard for high-visibility safety garments. It specifies the minimum requirements for the colour, retroreflectivity, and design of garments worn to make workers visible in hazardous environments — particularly where there is a risk of being struck by vehicles or moving equipment.

The standard covers two classes:

• Class D (Day only): Garments with fluorescent background material suitable for daytime use in well-lit conditions
• Class D/N (Day and Night): Garments with both fluorescent background material AND retroreflective tape, suitable for day use and low-light or night conditions

Most Australian workplace safety regulations require Class D/N garments for workers near traffic or operating at night. Outback Cobber's hi-vis shirts include retroreflective tape and meet the combined day/night standard.

Who Needs Hi-Vis Shirts in Australia?

Under Australian workplace health and safety (WHS) legislation, hi-vis clothing is required in a wide range of industries. Roles that typically require compliant hi-vis shirts include:

Yellow Hi-Vis vs Orange Hi-Vis — What's the Difference?

Both yellow and orange hi-vis shirts meet the AS/NZS 4602.1:2011 standard. The choice between them is typically industry convention or site preference:

• Yellow/lime: The most common hi-vis colour in Australia. Used across construction, road works, warehousing, and general site work. High contrast against most backgrounds.
• Orange: Common in mining, forestry, and some utilities. Also used where workers need to be distinguishable from yellow safety equipment or signage.

When in doubt, check your site's specific requirements. Outback Cobber offers both yellow/navy and orange/navy hi-vis shirts.

Outback Cobber Hi-Vis Shirts

Outback Cobber's hi-vis work shirts are built to the same standard as their full workwear range — durable construction, comfortable fit, and designed for long days on Australian job sites. Key features:

• AS/NZS 4602.1:2011 compliant
• Retroreflective tape for day/night visibility
• Available in yellow/navy and orange/navy
• Men's sizes S to 5XL
• Chest pocket
• Machine washable
• Available for custom branding (embroidery or heat transfer)

Can You Get Custom Branded Hi-Vis Shirts?

Yes. Outback Cobber offers custom branded hi-vis workwear for businesses. You can add your company logo via embroidery or heat transfer to the chest or back of the shirt. Minimum order is 12 shirts.

Custom branded hi-vis is popular with construction companies, civil contractors, mining businesses, and any trade business that wants their crew to look professional and be easily identified on site.

Get a custom hi-vis quote →

Caring for Hi-Vis Shirts to Maintain Compliance

Hi-vis garments lose their effectiveness over time if not cared for correctly. To maintain compliance:

• Wash according to the care label — typically cold or warm machine wash
• Avoid bleach, which degrades both fluorescent fabric and retroreflective tape
• Do not dry in direct sunlight for extended periods — UV exposure fades fluorescent material
• Inspect retroreflective tape regularly — replace the garment if tape is peeling, cracking, or no longer reflective
• Replace garments that are heavily stained, faded, or damaged — a dirty or faded hi-vis shirt may no longer meet the standard

Frequently Asked Questions