Media Release: AFC Board appoints Kellie Hush as CEO of AFC's Australian Fashion Week 2025

THE AFC BOARD APPOINTS RESPECTED INDUSTRY LEADER KELLIE HUSH AS CEO OF AUSTRALIAN FASHION COUNCIL’S AUSTRALIAN FASHION WEEK 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wednesday, 22 January 2025

Sydney: The Australian Fashion Council (AFC) Board is delighted to announce the appointment of Kellie Hush as Chief Executive Officer of Australian Fashion Council Australian Fashion Week 2025. A highly regarded leader in the Australian fashion industry, Kellie brings over 20 years’ of experience across media, fashion, and business to this role.

Kellie Hush is one of Australia’s most influential figures in fashion, having served as Editor-in-Chief of Harper’s BAZAAR Australia and as acting CEO of the AFC in 2022. She is a founding director of the AFC and has been a key participant in Australian Fashion Week since its inception. Additionally, she has held significant roles with Melbourne Fashion Festival, further cementing her reputation as a driving force in Australian fashion.

To ensure the successful delivery of Fashion Week 2025, the AFC Board is committed to strengthening resources and capabilities while balancing its broader strategic priorities. Kellie will work closely with the AFC Board and AFC Chief Executive Officer, Jaana Quaintance-James, to deliver an event that  embodies the values of Fashion Week 2025 and supports the growth and evolution of the industry.

“We have consistently emphasised that the AFC cannot achieve this alone—we need to mobilise a dedicated team. With Kellie’s extensive industry experience, long standing relationships, and deep understanding of the AFC, the Board is confident there is no better person to lead Fashion Week 2025 during this pivotal time for both the event and the industry,” said Marianne Perkovic, Chair of the Australian Fashion Council.

Kellie shared her enthusiasm for the role, stating, “I have been attending Australian Fashion Week for over two decades so I am delighted to step into this role, working alongside the AFC and my industry colleagues to deliver a 2025 event that stays true to the core principles of Fashion Week.”

The AFC has made two further appointments to the AFC Australian Fashion Week 2025 team. Jacqui Brown, in the role of Head of Operations brings deep experience in major event development and execution, including at Australian and New York Fashion Weeks, most recently having been in a Production Director role with IMG.  

Zoe Davis, in the role of Head of Strategic Partnerships, has an established career in managing and activating major partnerships across events, music and publishing, most recently as the Commercial Director of Cosmopolitan.  

The AFC Board also acknowledges the tremendous groundwork laid by AFC CEO Jaana Quaintance-James in preparation for Fashion Week 2025. This announcement is a strategic step to bolster AFC’s leadership capacity and allowing Jaana to focus on advancing the AFC’s broader strategic priorities including commerce and trade, local manufacturing, jobs and skills and sustainability. 

The AFC is confident that Kellie’s appointment, along with Jacqui and Zoe, will ensure the success of Fashion Week 2025 and further solidify the event’s reputation as a cornerstone of the Australian fashion industry.

-ends- 

Prue-ellen Thomas, Head of Marketing and Communications, AFC

pthomas@ausfashioncouncil.com 

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Want to expand into international wholesaling? Use this checklist to make sure you’re business ready from Elevate Wholesale Agency.

Are you ready to take your brand into the international wholesale market? 

Whether you're just starting to consider wholesale or actively planning your expansion, use this checklist to ensure you can take this next step into international wholesale confidently.

Created by Jenny Nakkan, Founder of Elevate Wholesale Agency, this detailed checklist will assess your brand’s readiness for wholesale success. Elevate specialises in proven strategies to accelerate wholesale growth and position brands on the global stage.

 

CHECKLIST 

✔️ Research 

Do your research and know where your brand sits and is positioned within wholesale. Explore your competitors and desired brand adjacencies. Be clear on your brands USP and the list of stores you want to target & why. 

Also research potential market entry barriers for export regions. There are many things to consider when it comes to tax and duty implications, so be clear on these requirements within your business and ensure you can meet them.

 

✔️ Critical Path 

Establish a dynamic wholesale critical path that caters to the sales market & delivery windows of the regions you are targeting. Your critical path must cover all facets within your product and development lifecycle.

 

✔️ Global Pricing & Wholesale Margin Assessment 

By region, ensure your retail & wholesale pricing model covers all facets of supply chain costs, industry standard retailer markups specific by region and the wholesale margin required for successful negotiations including potential discounts and coop contributions.

 

✔️ Finance Plan

Once you have your timelines and pricing mapped out, consider how that sits within your business financial plan. Consider implications and challenges that come with wholesale, and how you can manage these challenges within your business cash flow.

 

✔️ Logistics 

Consider the operations you will require to successfully deliver your goods from the factory into wholesale stores. Identify supply chain, logistics & partners required to streamline the delivery process and ensure Deliver in Full, On time (DIFOT). This is an area that might require you to have short, mid and long term goals in place

 

✔️ Marketing 

Understand your current marketing strategy and areas that can be extended to wholesale for maximum penetration and business return in your target wholesale markets.

 

✔️ Wholesale Sales Collateral

Review the seasonal collection assets you will need to develop to support selling your products to buyers in every season. Ensure you have order forms, line sheets, SMS and a B2B platform enabled, to ensure minimum industry standards are being achieved. 

 

✔️ Develop Your Sales Strategy and Identify Your Required Sales Model

Confident you have products that buyers want, but not sure how to get it in front of them? Develop a sales strategy that fits within your financial requirements to put your brand in front of the right buyers at the right time. There are many sales models that brands can consider such as sales agents, distributors, attending trade shows, travelling to the market & selling direct. 

 

✔️ Wholesale Sales Processes 

Be prepared by establishing your wholesale sales processes up front. Pay close attention to new wholesaler onboarding, trading terms documents, order confirmation processes, invoicing and accounts receivables, and all other elements of customer service.

Take your brand to the next level with the right tools and expert guidance. Elevate Wholesale Agency is here to help you navigate the path to global wholesale success. Don’t miss this opportunity. 

 

AFC MEMBER OFFER

As an exclusive benefit for AFC members, Elevate is offering a free one-hour consultation (valued at $995) to help you navigate the complexities of the global wholesale landscape. 

Schedule your free session with Jenny Nakkan, click here. 

AFC Australian Fashion Week Designer Applications Open

With new criteria, Fashion Week 2025 will spotlight only the best in Australian design, focusing on quality over quantity and setting a new standard for excellence. 

Each designer seeking to show will be requested to provide detailed information about their brand and business activity for review by the Selection Committee. All applications will be reviewed by the Selection Committee in line with a rigorous assessment framework. In 2025, decisions made by the Selection Committee are final; an appeal process will be introduced in subsequent years.

Applications will be accepted using the form below from 5pm Wednesday 15th January 2025 to 12pm, Friday 31st January 2025. Designers will be notified of the outcome on Tuesday 4th February 2025.

Fashion Week Advisory Committee nominations now open

Applications for the Fashion Week Advisory Committee closed on 17th January, 2025.

Fashion Week 2025 is an opportunity to reimagine and reshape how Australian fashion is represented and explore new ways in which to showcase emerging and established Australian talent. It's critical that Australia's premier fashion event is informed by comprehensive industry input at every step of the process, therefore the AFC are forming a Fashion Week Advisory Committee and two Sub-committees.

The role of the Advisory Committees

AFC Fashion Week Advisory Committee
This committee will be initially Chaired by AFW Founder Simon Lock, with the support of the AFC CEO Jaana Quaintance-James. The following profiles will be sought:
(2) Emerging Designer Representatives
(2) Established Australian Designer Representatives
(2) Established Australian International Designer Representatives
(1) Indigenous Designer Representatives
(2) Department store Representatives
(1) Australian designer multi-label boutique
(1) Australian online retailer
(1) Creative Services Representative (Hair/Makeup Stylist)
(1) Model Industry Representative
(1) Marketing Services Representative (PR/Agency)
(1) Media Services Representative (Social/Legacy)
(1) Education Institutions Representative
(1) Event Executive Producer
(1) Sponsor Representative

Selection Sub-Committee
To oversee and approve requests for designer participation.

International Marketing & Delegates Sub-Committee
To assist the Chair in identifying and extending international invitations to attend the event.

 

Applications for the Fashion Week Advisory Committee closed on 17th January, 2025.

Jobs & Careers in the Australian Fashion & Textile Industry: December

Looking for your next opportunity in fashion & textiles? Check out these exciting job openings in the Australian Fashion & Textiles industry right now.

Australian Fashion Council: Membership & Administration Coordinator - NSW
Apply here.

Australian Fashion Council: AFC Partnerships Manager - Fashion Week - NSW
Apply here.

Zimmermann: Brand & Content Sample Assistant - NSW
Apply here.

Lee Mathews: Retail Specialist - NSW
Apply here.

Carla Zampatti: Casual Styling Professional - QLD
Apply here.

Matteau: Junior Product Developer - NSW
Apply here.

Matteau: Production Coordinator - NSW
Apply here.

5 Must Listen Australian Fashion Podcasts for your Summer Break

Whether you're lounging by the beach or enjoying some downtime at home, we've got you covered with 5 must-listen fashion podcasts.

From behind-the-scenes stories to industry insights and sustainability tips, these podcasts will keep you inspired all summer long.

🌟Wardrobe Crisis with Clare Press - Clare Press
WARDROBE CRISIS is a fashion podcast about sustainability, ethical fashion and making a difference in the world. Your host is author and journalist Clare Press, who was the first ever Vogue sustainability editor. Each week, we bring you insightful interviews from the global fashion change makers, industry insiders, activists, artists, designers and scientists who are shaping fashion's future.

Listen on Spotify Podcasts

🌟 Fashion Business Mindset podcast - Elizabeth Formosa
Fashion Business Mindset is your FROW seat to 'real' stories from Designers, Brands, Entrepreneurs, Makers & Mentors. Our mission? To increase the success rate in the Fashion Industry by creating a dynamic fashion business eco-system. Fashion Business Mindset provides industry insights and insider access to The Future of Fashion. Hosted & created by Elizabeth Formosa, the Founder of Fashion Equipped.

Listen on Spotify Podcasts.

🌟 Process the Podcast - Arielle Thomas
Process the podcast welcomes guests of all creative disciplines, bridging the gap between art and commerce as leaders in their lane. Host Arielle Thomas hopes you love these creative conversations with some of the most celebrated names in the Australian fashion, media, and design landscape, taking a dive into their unique processes to actualise their ideas.

Listen here.

🌟Critical Fashion Studies - Dr Harriet Richards & Critical Fashion Studies
We hear a lot about ethical fashion, but what does this mean in practice? In this interview series, you'll hear from Australian fashion experts about how sustainability and diversity are shaping our local fashion industry.

Listen on Spotify Podcasts.

🌟 The Seamless Leadership Podcast - Seamless Australia

Hosted by sustainable fashion expert Clare Press. Tune in to hear industry leaders and changemakers tell the story of what it takes to build a new circular system for clothing.

Listen here.

🌟 In Fashion Podcast - Glynis Traill-Nash
Glynis talks fashion craft, commerce and connection with leaders, innovators and insiders that make the fashion world turn.

Listen here.

Media Release: Future of Fashion Week 2025 secured.

Sydney, Australia: Fashion Week will take place from 12-16 May 2025 at Carriageworks, Sydney, supported proudly by the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW. 

AFW founder Simon Lock is confirmed to play a crucial role, as part of the team who will deliver the 2025 event. 

Fashion Week 2025 will provide a significant opportunity for the Australian fashion industry to connect with international buyers and media, spotlight their collections and amplify their global presence. 

Minister for the Arts, Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, and Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham said: “Fashion Week is an essential showcase of one of our largest creative industries, highlighting the depth of talent not only in NSW but throughout Australia. 

“The industry has come together swiftly, pulling together its great expertise, to ensure that Fashion Week can go ahead in 2025. The NSW Government is pleased to confirm its continued support of the event.” 

AFC Chair Marianne Perkovic said: “Thank you to the NSW Government and the entire fashion industry for their commitment and collaboration. The AFC looks forward to delivering a world-class experience in 2025 and evolving the event in the future. 

“Fashion Week 2025 will mark a crucial milestone in the journey towards a truly industry-led event for Australian fashion. Our consultation has reinforced that the AFC is best positioned to lead this transformation, much like its successful international counterparts. A further announcement will be made on other appointments soon” 

Lock and the AFC are working to assemble a team with extensive Fashion Week experience to guide the event’s delivery. The approach will ensure the event continues to benefit designers, buyers and the entire fashion ecosystem while driving long-term value for the industry. A further announcement will be made on further appointments soon. 

The event will rearm Australia’s role as a global fashion hub, fostering economic growth and innovation across the fashion and textiles sector. 

AFC CEO Jaana Quaintance-James said: “Fashion Week is not just an event; it’s a catalyst for growth, collaboration and the innovation of Australian fashion. 

“This NSW Government support is a testament to the trust placed in the AFC and our vision for an industry-led future. Joining with Destination NSW and drawing on the expertise of our industry partners, we can take meaningful steps towards making Fashion Week more impactful for designers, and the broader creative economy.” 

Carla Zampatti CEO Alex Schuman said: “Fashion Week is an essential platform for showcasing Australia’s creative talents. It puts our designers, photographers, models, stylists and influencers on a world stage. I’m confident the AFC will create export opportunities that extend far beyond the runway.” 

Get Involved 

The AFC invites anyone interested in being part of this transformative journey to express their interest by entering their details through the Expression of Interest (EOI) form here. 

-ends 

For further information contact: 

Prue-ellen Thomas 

Head of Marketing and Communications, AFC 

pthomas@ausfashioncouncil.com +61 439 882 788 

____ 

ABOUT THE AUSTRALIAN FASHION COUNCIL: 

The Australian Fashion Council (AFC) is a not-for-profit and the peak body for the Australian fashion and textile industry, representing the sector for over 70 years. AFC members are Australian founded or majority owned businesses involved in producing fabric, clothing, footwear or accessories, including individuals that contribute creatively and economically to the Australian fashion and textile industry. The AFC champion and advocate for a prosperous and creative Australian fashion and textiles industry, with the purpose of building a vibrant, inclusive ecosystem for our member community through education, collaboration and innovation. 

Fashion Week Expression of Interest Form

The form below is for suppliers, partners and volunteers. Please find the nomination form for Fashion Week Committee here or Fashion Week Designer Application form here.

Have Your Say: The Future of Fashion Week

Following overwhelming encouragement from the industry, the AFC is taking the lead on evolving the future of Fashion Week in Australia. Our role is to listen and guide, and we want your voice at the table - the voices of both AFC members and non-members. 

SHARE YOUR VOICE HERE.

Please complete this survey by AEDT 11.59pm Wednesday 4th December, 2024.

As we plan for this transition, we’re conducting an industry-wide survey to understand your needs, priorities, and vision for an industry-led event. The survey results will also be reviewed independently from the AFC.

However, timelines are tight. So, while there are limitations on what can be implemented in this first year, your input will lay the foundation for a stronger and more impactful event in years to come.

This is our chance to design a future-focused event that aligns with industry, consumers and global markets. Your insights will inform how we approach planning to ensure this platform benefits all designers, brands, and the ecosystem of businesses across our sector.

SHARE YOUR VOICE HERE.

Please complete this survey by AEDT 11.59pm Wednesday 4th December, 2024.

Media Release: Fashion Industry Rallies Behind AFC to Lead the Delivery of a New Vision for Australian Fashion Week 2025

Fashion Industry Rallies Behind AFC to lead the delivery of a New Vision for Australian Fashion Week 2025

Sydney, Australia: Today, leading Australian fashion designers and key industry figures have rallied in support of an industry-led Australian Fashion Week (AFW), following the announcement that IMG will no longer manage the event. 

This generational opportunity for the Australian fashion industry marks a transformational shift. Under the leadership of the AFC with a new not-for-profit model, AFW can evolve into a platform that elevates Australian fashion on the global stage, benefits designers, and prioritises the unique needs of local industry that generates over $28b for the Australian economy.

“The time has come for Australian fashion to be represented by those who know it best—our own community,” said Marianne Perkovic, Chair Australian Fashion Council.

“As the representative voice of Australia’s fashion and textile sector, the AFC has the insight, commitment, and industry focus to lead Australian Fashion Week that truly reflects the strength, resilience, and creativity of our industry,” Jaana Quaintance-James, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Fashion Council said.

Quaintance-James adds, “Fashion Week is so much more than runways and high heels—it’s a vital creative platform that shines a global spotlight on Australian fashion, driving our $28 billion economic powerhouse. This industry employs over 500,000 people, predominantly women, and supports an export trade that generates more revenue than wine. Our vision is to create an event that not only celebrates our incredible talent but also positions Australian fashion as a global leader, delivering meaningful economic and social benefits for our industry and beyond.”

“Having a not-for-profit organise Australian Fashion Week will be a game-changer and it’s how other successful fashion weeks like Milan and Paris operate,” commented Alex Schuman, CEO of Carla Zampatti. “This shift is about putting the needs of our industry first and ensuring that AFW continues to be a global launchpad for both emerging and established designers.”

Minister for the Arts, Music and the Night Time Economy, John Graham said “The NSW Government has been supporting Australian Fashion Week since 2009, and is committed to supporting the Australian industry fight to keep fashion week going, here in Sydney.”

The AFC has garnered broad support from across the industry including Australian Fashion Week founder Simon Lock and Editorial Director & Publisher News Prestige and Conde Nast titles Australia, Edwina McCann, signalling a renewed vision for AFW under local leadership.

Through close collaboration with its members and partners, the AFC aims to deliver a truly inclusive and empowering event that showcases Australia’s creative talent and landmarks to the world, enhancing the visibility, positioning, and international demand for Australian fashion. 

Supporters:

-ends- 

Media contact:
Prue-ellen Thomas
Head of Marketing and Communications, AFC
pthomas@ausfashioncouncil.com +61 439 882 788

____

ABOUT THE AUSTRALIAN FASHION COUNCIL:
The Australian Fashion Council (AFC) is a not-for-profit and the peak body for the Australian fashion and textile industry, representing the sector for over 70 years. AFC members are Australian founded or majority owned businesses involved in producing fabric, clothing, footwear or accessories, including individuals that contribute creatively and economically to the Australian fashion and textile industry. The AFC champion and advocate for a prosperous and creative Australian fashion and textiles industry, with the purpose of building a vibrant, inclusive ecosystem for our member community through education, collaboration and innovation.

Australian Fashion Council respond to IMG’s Decision on the Future of Australian Fashion Week

Australian Fashion Council Chair Marianne Perkovic and CEO Jaana Quaintance-James, issue the below joint statement.

“The Australian Fashion Council (AFC) has learnt today of IMG’s decision to not proceed with Australian Fashion Week (AFW) in 2025. IMG has owned and operated AFW since 2005, providing a critical platform for Australian designers to showcase their talent and innovation, and positioning Australia as a key player on the global fashion stage. 

Turning to the future, we know we need a platform to profile and celebrate Australian fashion. This moment signals an opportunity for the industry to reimagine and reshape how Australian fashion is represented, and provides us all with an opportunity to explore new ways in which to showcase emerging and established Australian talent. 

The AFC, as the peak body for fashion and textiles in Australia, will lead this conversation. We will work with members, government and other stakeholders to consider the future platform needed to position and elevate Australian fashion internationally”.  

Media contact:
Prue-ellen Thomas
Head of Marketing and Communications, AFC
pthomas@ausfashioncouncil.com +61 439 882 788

____

MEMBER DISCUSSION AT AFC AGM

We invite all members to attend the AFC Annual General Meeting on Thursday December 5th 2025, where we will allocate time to discuss and hear feedback from members on what our members need, and how we can collaborate to create a platform that truly shines a light on and creates impact for Australian fashion globally. 

AFC Members, please find your invitation in your inbox to RSVP, or email member@ausfashioncouncil.com

NSW Inquiry: Procurement Recommendations Could Lead to a Bright Future for Local TCF Manufacturing

The AFC welcomes the NSW Government's report on procurement practices, which highlights the untapped potential of local TCF manufacturing to drive economic growth and job creation.

The report identifies several critical areas where changes in government procurement policies could revolutionise the Australian fashion and textile industry, boosting local businesses and creating more job opportunities.

"The findings are a clear indication that supporting local TCF manufacturing is not just an option but a necessity to ensure the sustainability and resilience of our industry. By prioritising local content, we can empower women with job opportunities, leverage the multiplier effect of local manufacturing to drive ethical supply chains and accelerate the adoption of technology into advanced manufacturing. This is our opportunity to position Australia as a leader in innovative and sustainable products on the global stage, focusing on quality and innovation rather than competing solely on the lowest price.

"Government procurement plays a huge role in creating economic stability for manufacturers, giving them the fiscal headroom to invest in more staff, more training, and advanced equipment, which in turn drives innovation through research and development. It's crucial for the government to signal to the rest of the community that procurement decisions are no longer just about the cheapest option. This shift in focus will attract investment, foster innovation, and support the development of advanced manufacturing capabilities that can truly make Australia competitive globally," - Jaana Quaintance-James, CEO of the Australian Fashion Council.

To truly unlock the potential of the Australian fashion sector, the AFC urges the NSW Government to take bold steps in adopting these recommendations, particularly those that enhance opportunities for small businesses, support First Nations enterprises, and drive sustainability. By embracing these changes, the government can create a thriving ecosystem that fosters innovation, creates jobs, and supports local manufacturers.

Summary of Report Key Findings:

  1. Support for Local Content: There is broad support among stakeholders for prioritising local content in procurement to boost the local economy and create jobs.
  2. Modern Slavery Concerns: Current procurement practices lack transparency, leading to potential labour exploitation, especially in high-risk industries like cleaning and security.
  3. Lack of environmental and Sustainability Standards: There are currently no goals to meet or achieve any Environmental or Social sustainability standards across procurement practices.
  4. Compliance Gaps: Post-award compliance checks are infrequent, risking non-compliance with labour standards and contract obligations.
  5. Small Business Access: Small businesses face barriers in participating in procurement processes due to a lack of capacity and complex tender requirements.

Summary of Recommendations for the Australian TCF Manufacturing Industry:

To promote the advancement of local manufacturing and job creation in Australia, the AFC support prioritising the following five recommendations from the report:

  1. Prioritise Local Content in Procurement (Recommendation 1):
    • Support local innovation by breaking down tenders into smaller parts, enabling small businesses to participate.
    • This approach would directly benefit local manufacturers and support small businesses to scale up, increasing job opportunities and economic growth.
  2. Mandate Modern Slavery Clauses (Recommendation 3):
    • Include modern slavery clauses in all procurement contracts to ensure ethical supply chain practices.
    • This recommendation aligns with ethical business practices and promotes fair labour standards, helping to protect workers in high-risk industries.
  3. Establish a Jobs First Commission (Recommendation 9):
    • Implement measures to monitor and enforce local content requirements, ensuring systematic compliance checks.
    • A dedicated body like the Jobs First Commission will drive accountability in supporting local industries and increasing employment opportunities.
  4. Support for Aboriginal and Diverse Enterprises (Recommendation 14):
    • Provide training, support, and skill development for Aboriginal businesses to help them succeed in government procurement.
    • Increasing diversity in the supply chain not only supports job creation but also fosters social inclusion and economic development within disadvantaged communities.
  5. Incentivise Sustainability and Circular Economy Practices (Recommendation 18):
    • Introduce requirements for government tenders to focus on product stewardship and the circular economy.
    • Emphasising sustainability in procurement encourages innovation and positions NSW as a leader in environmentally responsible manufacturing.

By adopting these strategies, the future of Australian manufacturing can be brighter than ever, providing a more resilient and competitive landscape for businesses and communities across the country.

Read the report in full here

 

AFC MEMBER BRAND & MANUFACTURERS FORUM

AFC Members are invited to this session, where we will unpack the Victorian TCF manufacturing report findings and recommendations, and workshop industry priorities. This forum will be an opportunity for brands and manufacturers to collaborate, voice challenges and plan next steps for our manufacturing industry to be better supported, evolve and thrive.

WHEN: Wednesday, 23 October, 2024
TIME: 11.00am - 1.00pm
LOCATION: Epiphany Room, GPT Space&Co, 376-390 Collins Street, Melbourne
AFC Members can RSVP HERE

AFC Member, Brand & Manufacturing Forums in Melbourne

AFC members are invited to  the AFC Member Forums, held in Melbourne during Melbourne Fashion Week. Please RSVP for both events.

 

SESSION ONE: AFC MEMBER FORUM

TIME: 8.30am -10:30am

WHEN: Wednesday, 23 October, 2024

LOCATION: Epiphany Room, GPT Space&Co, 376-390 Collins Street, Melbourne

AFC MEMBERS RSVP HERE

In this session, we will share the AFC’s new strategy and upcoming programs and events for members. These forums provide a unique opportunity to voice your feedback, network with industry peers, share knowledge and discuss key issues that will inform AFC’s pathways, policies and projects.

 

SESSION TWO: AFC MEMBERS & MANUFACTURING FORUM 

TIME: 11.00am - 1.00pm

WHEN: Wednesday, 23 October, 2024

LOCATION: Epiphany Room, GPT Space&Co, 376-390 Collins Street, Melbourne

AFC MEMBERS RSVP HERE

Please stay for the AFC Manufacturing Forum where we will focus on our industry manufacturing strategy. In this collaborative session, we will unpack the Victorian TCF manufacturing report findings and recommendations to workshop our industry priorities. This forum will be an opportunity to work together to plan the next steps for our manufacturing industry to be better supported, evolve and thrive.

 

WHY ATTEND AFC MEMBER FORUMS?

Exclusive Access: Be first to hear about the AFC’s strategy and industry priorities.

Networking: Connect with fellow members and industry leaders.

Workshop & Feedback: Share your insights and help shape the future direction of the AFC.

Knowledge Sharing: Gain valuable knowledge and best practices from your peers.

 

With special thanks to Melbourne Fashion Week for supporting the AFC Member Forums through their Independent Program.

How Data and Tech Influence the Future of Retail Planning: Discover Insights from Fiona Hochmuth, CFO of Lorna Jane.

Join the Board Intelligent Planning Webinar! 

This webinar will bring together industry professionals to exchange innovative ideas, improve retail processes, and explore the power of technology to enhance the future of retail planning.

FIONA HOCHMUTH, CFO AT LORNA JANE

Listen to Fiona Hochmuth, CFO of Lorna Jane, as she shares insights into the brand's journey in creating a global activewear phenomenon. For 35 years, Lorna Jane has not only dominated the activewear space but also opened up a market that has seamlessly blended workout wear with everyday life

During the webinar, Fiona will delve into what made Lorna Jane a global success and how they anticipated a shift in consumer behaviour even before it became a trend. She’ll discuss the brand's journey from wholesale and department store models to establishing its own retail network, adapting to changing market dynamics, and the growing demand for versatile and stylish activewear.

The global activewear market is projected to grow by 5-7% over the next five years, driven by this growing focus on low-impact exercise, health, and wellness. Fiona will provide her insights into how these trends are influencing the market and how Lorna Jane continues to stay ahead of the curve.

ELEONORE HAILLOT, INDUSTRY ADVISOR AT MICROSOFT PARIS 

Also featured in the webinar is Eleonore Haillot, an Industry Advisor at Microsoft Paris with over 15 years of experience. She has held pivotal roles such as Head of Transformation – Brand & Consumer Markets and Principal, Group Strategy. Eleonore has an impressive background working with global brands like Microsoft, De Beers Group, and Adidas. Her expertise in retail, consumer goods, and luxury markets will provide valuable insights into industry transformation and leadership.

Together, they will offer strategies to navigate the current retail landscape and drive success in a rapidly evolving industry.

EVENT DETAILS 

WHEN: 12pm AEDT, Thursday 31st October
WHEN: Online Webinar

REGISTER NOW

 

ABOUT BOARD

Board’s Enterprise Planning Platform delivers solutions that help organisations worldwide plan smarter by enabling actionable insights and better outcomes. Board helps leading enterprises discover crucial insights which drive business decisions and unify strategy, finance and operations through more integrated and intelligent retail planning to achieve full control of performance.

Board have helped global enterprises such as H&M, BASF and Burberry deploy end-to-end retail planning applications at a fraction of the time and cost associated with traditional solutions.

Dr Sarah Kaine hosts AFC members for an address by Minister Houssos on Local Manufacturing at Parliament House

Dr Sarah Kaine MLC hosted AFC members at Parliament House with an address by the Hon. Minister Houssos MLC, Minister for Finance, Minister for Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement, and Minister for Natural Resources.

Dr Sarah Kaine MLC hosted AFC members for a Ministerial address on TCF local manufacturing and government procurement. We would like to thank Dr Sarah Kaine MLC and also the Hon. Minister Houssos MLC, Minister for Finance, Minister for Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement, and Minister for Natural Resources, for listening to our industry opportunities and challenges. 

An engaging roundtable including AFC Members Eric Phu (Citizen Wolf), Jacquie Macdougall (The Social Outfit), Jackie Galleghan (Madre Natura), Alison Lennard (Philosophy Australia) and Simon Stewart (Stewart & Heaton Clothing), discussed with Hon. Minister Houssos MLC their key concerns and recommendations that can help us here in NSW and broadly nationally. 

The discussions called for:

Craig Heckenberg, Managing Director of Epson, also shared a few words on their support of the AFC and their shared goal of a local, sustainable and thriving TCF industry that harnesses the power of technology and advanced on-demand manufacturing. We also shared the key findings of the Victorian Local Manufacturing report the Australian Fashion Council launched last month in partnership with Epson Australia, and discussed its implications for NSW.

READ THE REPORT HERE

We’d like to thank all our AFC members for their support: Philosophy Australia, Madre Natura, Citizen Wolf, The Social Outfit, Bianca Spender, Carla Zampatti, Lee Mathews, The Iconic, State of Escape, Eder by Anna, Matteau, THEODORE, Brigid Mclaughlin and Carl Kapp. 

We’d also like to thank our AFC Partners: Epson, TAFE NSW, Afterpay, Marque Lawyers, Imageworks Consulting, UTS and The Growth Activists.

Our industry is determined to thrive. Let's talk about the benefits of local manufacturing, not the costs. Let's talk about jobs, skills, the social benefits of sustaining a female-powered workforce, and the environmental benefits of sustainable and ethical production. Together, implementation of these recommendations is not just practical but symbolic. They send a message across our country —one that resonates with consumers, the industry, and brands alike: Choose Australian. 

We look forward to updating you on the next steps of the NSW Manufacturing Strategy. 

AFC Greenwashing & Sustainability Claims with the ACCC Webinar

AFC Members and City of Sydney businesses are invited to our next Experts & Insights Webinar on "Greenwashing & Sustainability claims with the ACCC." 

Date: 4pm, Thursday 10th October 2024

Platform: Online, via Zoom. Register here

Open to: AFC members or City of Sydney businesses. See if your business is in the City of Sydney LGA here. 

As sustainability becomes a central focus in fashion, understanding how to communicate your brand's environmental efforts is more critical than ever. Supported by City of Sydney, this session features Aimee Chadzynski from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to delve into the legal implications of greenwashing and provide practical guidance on ensuring your marketing claims are transparent, accurate, and compliant with Australian consumer law. 

A round table session will follow, where Jaana Quaintance-James,CEO of the AFC, will host a Q&A with Georgia MacKinnon from State of Escape and Rebekkah Carey-Smith from The Iconic where you’ll have the chance to openly discuss challenges and ask questions. 

Learn how to avoid misleading communication, enhance your brand's credibility and build trust with responsible consumers. This is an essential event for fashion brands committed to genuine sustainability and ethical marketing practices.

Register here

AFC submission to the ABS review of the ANZSCO codes

The AFC has made a submission to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Australian & New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) recommending immediate funding to undertake a nationwide review of current, emerging and future TCF manufacturing occupations and match occupations to the ABS ANZSCO codes. 

Our recent report, Victorian TCF Manufacturing: Future Jobs, Technology, and Economic Benefits, highlighted the pressing need to address outdated industry codes. The report revealed the TCF industry value and employment numbers are underestimated and facing severe skills shortages nationally, partly due to historical ABS ANZSCO and ANZSIC codes. Despite this, our report also identified a resilient industry with a strong demand for skilled TCF technicians that is not being met.

The ABS ANZSCO codes inform priority lists for skilled migration, training programs and pathways and ensure accurate quantification of employment numbers in the TCF sector. Since the ABS ANZSCO and ANZSIC codes were first released in 2006, there have been significant changes in the TCF manufacturing industry. 

The AFC recommends immediate funding to undertake a nationwide review to identify current, emerging and future TCF manufacturing occupations and match occupations to the ABS ANZSCO list. This would include consultation with industry to capture specific occupation tasks as well as unique TCF specialisation fields. This is critical to ensure training programs work together with industry classifications to support and showcase the breadth of TCF manufacturing jobs to students.

 

Recommendations

  1. TCF occupations are not retired or merged with broader occupation codes.
  2. The following occupations are added to the ABS ANZSCO and ongoing consultation undertaken with the TCF industry to better understand the tasks and specialisations for each occupation  (Garment Technician, Digital Textile and Clothing Printer, Textile Technician (including specialisation: Digital Textile Technician), Textile Designer, Product Developer. 
  3. Specialisations are added to existing occupations in: Production Manager (Manufacturing) - Add Clothing and Textile Production Manager, Clothing Patternmaker - Add Digital Clothing Pattern Maker, Knitting Machine Operator - Add Circular Knitting Technician.
  4. The AFC recommends immediate funding of the AFC to conduct a nationwide study to quantify the TCF manufacturing industry, identify current and future skills gaps and map career pathways to ensure economic security for the female dominated workforce. 

Implementation of the four recommendations will ensure skilled migration pathways and training programs that meet industry skills gaps. If unaddressed, the skills shortages impacting the industry nationally risk being lost and restricting the potential growth of the sector. 

 

Feedback from AFC members identifying skills shortages

“Garment technicians and pattern makers are very different roles with different levels of skills. This would be the same as calling an architect a builder, both very important roles, very different stages. I think this may be happening because of the off-shoring that has happened. A garment technician can work on tech packs but not clothing patterns, they are two very different skill sets.” - RB Patterns on merging Clothing Pattern Maker into Garment Technician job code

 

“Sewing skills is definitely an issue. The big challenge that we see is that it's a skillset that's part of an ageing workforce, and there aren't enough younger people starting in the industry who are learning the basic manufacturing skills and see that as a viable career path, as opposed to the more "fun" and creative side of being a designer.” - Citizen Wolf on the sewing machinists shortage.

 

“The roles we are hiring for today are different to a decade ago. Another gap is the manufacturing skills we lost 30 years ago when production moved offshore — it’s critical that the government invests in the skills and infrastructure to address the skills shortage in Australia with machinists and technicians and enable more local manufacturing, whether that be robotic or through skilled workers. This would help enable Country Road to fulfil the customer demand for Australian-made clothing.” - Country Road on losing critical skills to enable local manufacturing.

 

Next Steps

To ensure a prosperous future for the TCF manufacturing industry, it's crucial to adapt these codes to reflect the evolving landscape of the TCF sector. The AFC will continue to advocate with the ABS to ensure industry classifications better reflect today’s TCF industry, ensuring a robust and skilled workforce that can drive the industry’s growth and resilience.

Remade in Melbourne: Country Road’s collaboration with HoMie

Country Road is excited to announce a new collaboration with HoMie, launched Tuesday 3 September. This partnership sees a limited run of iconic past-season Country Road garments reimagined into unique designs at local facility ABMT in Melbourne.

A streetwear label and social enterprise based in Melbourne, HoMie supports young people affected by homelessness or hardship.

Through its REBORN program, it is exploring reuse in the fashion industry by upcycling existing garments into unique pieces. Past-season Heritage Sweats have been reimagined through a unique process. After being sorted into size batches and colour groups, five different design blocks were chosen to cut and mix various panels like a puzzle to minimise waste.

For the logo, HoMie REBORN collaborated with illustrator Nick Campbell, with the brief and concept tagline “from the Country Road to the city streets”. A puff print ink was chosen to elevate the final design.

Speaking to this pilot collaboration, HoMie’s creative director, Marcus Crook, said:

“HoMie is thrilled to be partnering with one of Australia’s most loved and iconic brands in Country Road, so HoMie’s impact can stretch all the way from the Country Road to the city streets.

This limited-edition collection will feature 230 units. 

The sweats will be available in four select stores: Brighton, Chadstone, South Yarra, and Warringah Mall.

Shop HERE.

The new AFC Strategy: Shaping the Future of Australian Fashion and Textiles

Dear Australian Fashion Community,

I’m thrilled to share some exciting news with you. At the AFC, we’ve been hard at work crafting a new strategy—it’s one that directly addresses the challenges our industry is facing today, shaped by your voices, your concerns, and your passion.

Last month, we gathered with many of you in Sydney for our first-ever Member Forums to discuss the future of the Australian fashion industry. These sessions were a powerful reminder of what makes our industry so special: our willingness to come together, share openly, and work collaboratively towards common goals. The feedback from these forums played a crucial role in refining the AFC's new strategy, ensuring it is aligned with the needs of the industry.

Key challenges identified during the forums include the complexities of accessing export markets, the high costs associated with local manufacturing, and the urgent need to address skills gaps within the industry. Members also highlighted the importance of sustainability, expressing a desire for more circularity infrastructure and greater industry collaboration to drive meaningful change.

The AFC's Strategic Agenda

The Member forums helped us refine our mission for our members:
To champion and advocate for a prosperous, innovative and creative Australian fashion and textiles industry. Our purpose is to build a vibrant and inclusive ecosystem for our community through education, collaboration and innovation.

And the strategic priorities the AFC needs to deliver on this mission:

REPRESENTATION:
Cultivate a member community that represents the full breadth of the Australian fashion and textile industries and activate projects such as an industry-level strategy for First Nations Fashion and evolving the AFC Directory and Hub to better meet your needs and connect you with your peers.

ENGAGEMENT & ADVOCACY:
Create value for our members by fostering community and collaboration and advocating for their interests with all stakeholders. This means more member engagement events such as ongoing member forums, anAustralian Fashion Conference in 2025, government advocacy and Strategic Partner programs which deliver value to you.

IMPACT:
Support our members to be successful through initiatives that deliver positive commercial outcomes in four key impact areas:

The AFC’s approach underscores its commitment to supporting the fashion industry through advocacy, education, and strategic partnerships.

This isn’t just a plan on paper—it’s a commitment to action. We’re ready to roll up our sleeves and work alongside you, secure funding to tackle the above programs, advocate for better industry support, create new educational pathways, and build the infrastructure we need for a more sustainable future. But we can’t do it alone. Our strength lies in our community, and we need your continued engagement and support to make this vision a reality.

If you’re not yet a member, now is the time to join the AFC. There’s an energy and momentum building in our industry that you won’t want to miss. As a member, you’ll have the opportunity to shape the future of Australian fashion, access exclusive resources, and connect with a network of passionate professionals who, like you, are dedicated to making a difference.

Together, we can overcome the challenges we face and build an Australian fashion industry that is not only resilient but also thriving. I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together.

Warm regards,

Jaana Quaintance-James
CEO, Australian Fashion Council

Media Release: AFC announces Jaana Quaintance-James as its new CEO

The Australian Fashion Council (AFC) is delighted to announce the appointment of Jaana Quaintance-James as its new Chief Executive Officer, commencing in the role today. 

A leader with a strong track record in commercial strategy delivering market advantage through sustainable practices and innovation, Ms Quaintance-James has dedicated her career to driving impactful change across the Fashion and Textile Industry both domestically and internationally. 

Ms Quaintance-James was most recently the Chief Sustainability and Sourcing Officer at Global Fashion Group which operates fashion and lifestyle eCommerce platforms in LATAM and South-East Asia including THE ICONIC in Australia and New Zealand. Prior to this she was Head of Sustainability at THE ICONIC and Ethical Sourcing Manager at David Jones, following a decade-long consulting career in consumer goods.

Marianne Perkovic, Chair of the AFC said, “Ms Quaintance-James joins us at a time when the Australian Fashion and Textile Industry is navigating challenges in the retail and trading environments at a local and global level, inflationary pressures, technology changes and shortages of skilled workers and materials.” 

“There was a high level of interest in this position. We were ultimately impressed by Ms Quaintance-James’ strategic leadership and strong financial, and operational skills. Her industry knowledge and drive for business transformations that improve profitability and sustainability will ensure our industry continues to thrive.”

Ms Quaintance-James said, “I am excited to champion and support our members as they manage change and innovate. Behind the incredible Australian fashion brands are businesses and their employees supported by consumers. Together we create opportunities to accomplish more and continue to grow the economic contributions of the Australian Fashion and Textile Industry”.

-ends-

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND INTERVIEWS
Prue-ellen Thomas, Head of Marketing and Communications, AFC
pthomas@ausfashioncouncil.com