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

• Leading Australian Designers, Vogue Australia and key industry figures show solidarity at the Sydney Opera House

• The Hon. Minister Graham MLC, NSW Minister for the Arts, Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, Minister for Jobs and Tourism, has expressed support for an industry-led AFW

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:

• Australian designers, brands and key industry leaders in attendance include: Carla Zampatti, Camilla & Marc, Romance was Born, Alix Higgins, Christopher Esber, Aje, Bianca Spender, madre Natura, Zimmermann, Beare Park, Sportscraft, Saba, JAG, Sarah & Sebastian, Karla Spetic, Mine, Yours, Theirs, JaneJu, Saint Somebody, Ruth Tate, Pip Edwards, Adam Worling, Jillian Davison, Afterpay, Ebay, Elevate Wholesale Agency, Lara Inc Events, Brand Partner and more
• Additional supporters include: Zimmermann, Akira Isogawa, bassike, Cue, West 14th, Camilla, Esse Studios, Lee Mathews, Bondi Born, Jac+Jack, Thdr, Carl Kapp, Jordan Gogos, Cloth & Co, Daniel Avakian, Stewart & Heaton, Citizen Wolf, Mariam Seddiq, Glass PR, Albus Lumen, National Fashion College, Art Box Black, Thread Together, Chris Kontos Creative, Ndless: the New Normal, Wardrobe Crisis, The Brag Media, Carfrae Consulting and the Australian Fashion Foundation amongst others
• Australian Fashion Council Chair, Marianne Perkovic
• Australian Fashion Council CEO, Jaana Quaintance-James
• Carla Zampatti CEO and AFC Board Member, Alex Schuman 
• Editorial Director & Publisher News Prestige and Conde Nast titles Australia, Edwina McCann 

-ends- 

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

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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.