Australians are being encouraged to take a Fairtrade coffee break to help improve the lives of farmers in some of the poorest parts of the world.

Peppers Deli & Books owner Christi Muir said that changing over from traditional coffee to Fairtrade coffee was a simple thing to do.

"You are enabling small-scale farmers to provide the basics of life for their family," she said.

"Coffee farmers are really hurting and we want local people to have the opportunity to change that situation.

"Just think how much more enjoyable your coffee will be when you know it's helping lift coffee farmers out of poverty."

Fair Trade is an alternative approach to conventional international trade, which aims to share the benefits of trade more equitably between consumers, producers and the environment.

Fair Trade Fortnight events will be held across Australia until May 18, giving consumers the opportunity to learn and support the organisation.

Peppers Deli & Books will donate $1 from every coffee sold on Thursday to Oxfam Australia.

To hold a Fairtrade coffee break event and for further information, visit www.fairtrade.com.au