The Australian Fashion Council is proud to announce the development of a National Manufacturing Strategy in partnership with our Brand Ambassador and Strategic Partner, R.M. Williams.
This strategy will outline an actionable roadmap to revitalise Australia’s clothing and textile manufacturing sector. We will be working alongside industry stakeholders across the country to create a unified approach to rebuilding and advancing Australia's manufacturing capability.
With a focus on job creation, future-focused skills, sustainable practices, and advanced technologies, the strategy will position Australian manufacturing for long-term global competitiveness. It will also strengthen the industry’s voice to advocate for the support and investment needed to grow a resilient, future-ready sector.
The Australian Fashion Council (AFC) has announced RM Williams as its brand ambassador for local manufacturing. This collaboration unites RM Williams’ heritage of quality craftsmanship with AFC’s mission to foster a thriving, resilient fashion and textile industry through sustainable, onshore production.
Recent AFC research into Victoria’s clothing and textile manufacturing sector shows signs of stabilisation after decades of decline, with a clear call for a national manufacturing strategy.
The Federal policies including A Future Made in Australia and local-first procurement are reigniting the potential to right-shore production. As the industry moves toward a circular economy, new skills and advanced manufacturing capabilities will be essential to future growth.
The National Manufacturing Strategy aims to reinvigorate Australia’s clothing and textile manufacturing potential and demonstrate the sector’s future viability to both government and industry.
Its core objective is to develop a comprehensive roadmap for the future of the industry, one that attracts government and private sector investment, supports a sustainable local supply chain, and embraces technology to ensure global competitiveness.
The National Manufacturing Strategy will be shaped through six consultation sessions across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and online.
These will bring together manufacturers, brands, and educators to identify gaps and develop recommendations. The AFC invites all textile, clothing, and footwear manufacturers to join – RSVP here.
What is the National Manufacturing Strategy?
The National Manufacturing Strategy aims to reinvigorate Australia’s clothing and textile manufacturing potential and demonstrate the sector’s future viability to both government and industry. Its core objective is to develop a comprehensive roadmap for the future of the industry—one that attracts government and private sector investment, supports a sustainable local supply chain, and embraces technology to ensure global competitiveness.
Do I have to be a member to attend?
You do not need to be a member to attend. Anyone working in or connected to the Australian clothing and textile manufacturing sector: designers, manufacturers, suppliers, educators, and policymakers, are encouraged to take part.
Will they be in in-person or online?
There will be a combination of in-person and one online session that will allow participants to attend online if they are unable to attend in person.
Can I attend multiple industry consultations?
Yes, you can attend multiple industry consultations.
How long will the sessions run?
Each session will run for approximately 2–3 hours, with time for discussion, feedback, and networking.
Is there a cost to attend?
No, the consultations are free to attend, but registration is essential.
Will there be opportunities to contribute outside the consultations?
Yes. We are working on additional opportunities to contribute to the strategy, including industry surveys and written submissions will be shared with participants and the broader industry.
“We’re incredibly proud to partner with R.M.Williams - an iconic brand that proves Australian manufacturing isn’t just possible; it’s profitable, scalable, and vital to our future. Our sector is at a critical tipping point. Through deep industry consultation, we’ve identified an urgent need for a National Manufacturing Strategy - one that safeguards jobs, restores technical capability, and strengthens our global competitiveness. Rebuilding local manufacturing will deliver far-reaching economic and community benefits - from job creation and skills development to regional growth and greater participation for women. This is about securing Australia’s fashion and textile future in an increasingly uncertain global market both economically, socially, and sustainably.”
Jaana Quaintance-James, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Fashion Council.
‘We’re honoured to step into this role at a time when local manufacturing is facing both challenges and opportunities. By partnering with the AFC, we hope to inspire other Australian brands to produce locally. We believe that quality products made by skilled Australian hands will always be valued, and we’re excited to contribute to the AFC’s vision for a National Manufacturing Strategy that supports jobs, skills, and sustainability’
Tara Moses, Chief Operating Office, R.M Williams
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