AFW2026: Meet the Makers, presented by EPSON

Australian Fashion Week has long been the industry's most important week of the year. This year, we used it to do something different, bring the supply chain into the room.

On the rooftop of the Museum of Contemporary Art, the AFC hosted Meet the Makers. a curated matchmaking event presented by Epson and MC'd by Glen Rollason, Founder of RB Patterns. 11 of Australia's leading manufacturers gathered under one roof, giving brands a rare opportunity to discover the capabilities, craftsmanship and capacity sitting right in their own backyard.

For too long, local manufacturing has felt out of reach for many Australian brands, not because the capability isn't there, but because the connections haven't been. Meet the Makers was built to change that. By creating a structured, face-to-face environment during the industry's most concentrated week of the year, we brought the right people into the same room at the right time.

None of this would have been possible without the eleven manufacturers who brought the event to life: EPSON, Citizen Wolf, ABMT, J&M Fashions, Knovus, Marlene Dawn, MTK Australia, RB Patterns, Silver Fleece, Tech Style Studio and Waverley Mills.

Each showcased what they do best and in doing so, opened the door to a new wave of Australian-made partnerships.

The calibre of brands in attendance reflected the broad appetite for local production across the industry. Joining the event were brands spanning from enterprise to SMB, including CUE, THE ICONIC, Alemais, BY JOHNNY, MARCS, Injury, Haluminous, LuluJaru, West 14th and more.  

The result was exactly what the event was designed to deliver. The room was alive with energy from the moment it opened, with brands eager to understand what Australian manufacturers are truly capable of. From fabric and pattern making to full garment production and digital printing, the range of expertise on display was a powerful reminder of the depth of skill that still exists.


A special thank you to our partner EPSON, whose support made Meet the Makers possible. Events like this are only possible with partners who are genuinely invested in the future of the Australian fashion industry, and Epson's commitment to local manufacturing is a reflection of exactly that.

Media Release: AFC Announces The Museum of Contemporary Art as the New Home of Australian Fashion Week 2026

Sydney [19 February 2026] The Australian Fashion Council (AFC) in partnership with Strategic Partner Destination NSW today announced the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA) as the central hub for AFC Australian Fashion Week (AFW) 2026, marking a bold new chapter for the country’s premier fashion event.

Taking place 11–15 May 2026, AFW will return as a city-wide platform anchored at the MCA and supported by satellite activations across Sydney designed to elevate Australian fashion globally while strengthening its cultural and commercial impact.

The MCA will host a purpose-built runway and presentation environment, industry talks and cultural programming, media and buyer facilities, and curated brand activations — positioning AFW at the intersection of fashion, art and contemporary culture.

AFC Executive Chair Marianne Perkovic said the move signals a defining evolution for Australian Fashion Week.

“Bringing Australian Fashion Week to the Museum of Contemporary Art marks an exciting new chapter for the event and for Australian fashion more broadly. The MCA provides an iconic Sydney backdrop that reflects the creativity, cultural relevance and global outlook of our designers, while enabling a more open, connected and internationally compelling format.”

“AFW 2026 is designed not just as a runway schedule, but as a national industry platform and a cultural moment for the city.”

MCA Director, Suzanne Cotter, said: “Contemporary art and fashion go hand in hand. There is a long history of artists and designers working together to create memorable works of fashion and art. The MCA’s iconic location and spaces, along with its Collection dedicated to the work of living Australian artists, make it a perfect canvas for designers to show their collections for Australian Fashion Week.”

MCA Chair, Lorraine Tarabay says: “The MCA could not be more delighted with this new partnership with Australian Fashion Week to showcase the best of Australian talent against the backdrop of contemporary art and the city itself.”

AFW 2026 will feature runway shows from established, emerging and First Nations designers, alongside a dedicated graduate runway celebrating the next generation of Australian design talent. Beyond the runways, AFC will host designer talks, experiences and other special events. Together, these elements strengthen AFW’s role as a national industry platform and a vibrant cultural event for all Australians.

AFW provides critical commercial opportunities to drive business growth for designers and brands and offers an invaluable platform for designers to showcase their collections to leading international media and buyers.

Building on the success of the 2025 event, AFW 2026 will be delivered under the AFC’s dedicated subsidiary, AFC Fashion Events (AFC FE), established to provide a strengthened governance, leadership and delivery model that reflects the scale, ambition and national importance of Australia’s fashion industry.

AFW is overseen by an experienced Executive Board comprising Marianne Perkovic, Executive Chair of the Australian Fashion Council and AFC Fashion Events; Professor Robyn Healy, Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor, Learning, Teaching and Quality, DSC at RMIT University; Alex Schuman, CEO of Carla Zampatti; Renuka Kimber, Co-founder of Christian Kimber; Bridget Veals, Executive General Manager, Womenswear, Footwear and Accessories at David Jones; and Adrian Norris, Co-founder and Co-CEO of Aje.

In addition to the Board, the AFC is pleased to confirm the return of Kellie Hush as Fashion Director for AFW, overseeing designer and industry relations.

AFW is supported by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW.

Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said: “As the nation’s fashion capital this is exactly the kind of bold, iconic experience we want to see in Sydney – there is no better example of our city’s unique combination of natural wonder and cultural vibrancy than Fashion Week on the harbour, at one of our most recognisable cultural institutions. The NSW Government is proud to partner with the Australian Fashion Council to deliver Australian Fashion Week 2026 at the MCA and across the city, showcasing Sydney as a world-leading destination for fashion, creativity and cultural experiences.”

In addition to Destination NSW, AFW is made possible through the support of Partners Create NSW, City of Sydney, Afterpay, Canon, DHL, eBay, Hisense and Nivea.

Visit australianfashionweek.org and follow @afcaustralianfashionweek for more.

Please see imagery here.

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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.

ABOUT AUSTRALIAN FASHION WEEK:
Australian Fashion Week (AFW) in Sydney is the country’s premier platform for showcasing Australian fashion to global audiences and, since 1996, has played a critical role in launching and sustaining some of Australia’s most recognisable fashion brands. The event presents leading Australian designers to domestic and international buyers, facilitating trade and export opportunities while fostering meaningful connections across designers, retailers, media and industry leaders. Focused on delivering tangible outcomes for the Australian fashion and textile ecosystem, AFW elevates local talent, drives dialogue on the future of fashion, and positions Australia as a global leader in fashion, creativity and innovation. Since 2025, AFW has been part of AFC Fashion Events, a subsidiary of the Australian Fashion Council.

For further information contact:
Nikki Andrews
NAC Media Group
nikki@nacmedia-group.com  +61 412 647 980

Mitchell Harcourt
NAC Media Group
mitchell@nacmedia-group.com +61 421 197 114

AFC Member Lounge at Australian Fashion Week

We would like to introduce you to the AFC Member Lounge at Australian Fashion Week. Your exclusive front-row seat to the conversations, connections, and collaborations shaping the future of Australian fashion.

 

AFC MEMBER LOUNGE AT AUSTRALIAN FASHION WEEK

Located at Carriageworks, the home of Australian Fashion Week, the AFC Member Lounge is a dedicated retreat for Australian Fashion Council members - offering a place to meet, recharge, and engage with industry peers, partners, and special guests.

Throughout the week, the lounge will also host The Talks — a thought leadership series exploring the future of Australian fashion, from revitilising local supply chains through advanced manufacturing to confronting the rise of global fast fashion, and unlocking export growth in an unpredictable global market.

Whether you're between shows or diving deep into industry insights, the AFC Member Lounge is your space to reconnect and reflect on what’s next for Australian fashion.

 

THE TALKS | Presented by the Australian Fashion Council

Big ideas. Bold voices. The future of fashion, in conversation.

Step inside the AFC Member Lounge at Australian Fashion Week and join the conversation shaping the future of fashion in Australia.

The Talks is a three-part thought leadership series bringing together pioneers, disruptors, and decision-makers to explore the big questions facing our industry - from the future of Australian manufacturing and the rise of next-generation production, to the impact of ultra-fast fashion and global market disruptions.

Curated by the Australian Fashion Council, these sessions offer an opportunity to hear directly from industry leaders, government voices, and innovative trailblazers driving change at every level. Expect insightful conversations, practical perspectives, and bold ideas - with opportunities for the audience to engage directly through live Q&As and roundtable discussions.

We also invite you to join us for drinks and networking after the session, providing an opportunity to connect with fellow industry leaders and continue the conversation in an informal setting.

Whether you're a designer, manufacturer, media, policymaker, or fashion delegate, The Talks is your front-row seat to the future of Australian fashion.

 

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Made in Australia: Powering the Future of Australian Manufacturing
WHEN: 3-4PM, Wednesday, 14th May 2025
Australia’s fashion and textile manufacturing sector stands at a critical crossroads. Amid rising global trade tensions and supply chain volatility, the need to rebuild sovereign capability has never been more urgent.

This session will examine the current state of Australia’s local manufacturing landscape, the global forces accelerating change and the national opportunity to reshore key production capabilities. From future-proofing trade and export growth, to driving regional economic development, enabling advanced skills, and scaling value-add industries like fibre processing, this important conversation will explore why rebuilding Australia’s manufacturing base is the key to unlocking a new era for Australian design, craftsmanship and economic resilience.

Hear from the industry leaders driving this movement and shaping a bold new vision for a globally competitive, future-ready Australian fashion industry.

Smarter, Faster, Greener: The Rise of Australia’s Future Factories
WHEN: 12-1PM, Thursday, 15th May 2025
What does the next generation of fashion manufacturing look like and how do we build it here in Australia? 

This session explores the new frontier of local production: AI-powered facilities, sustainable processes, and faster paths from design to consumer. It’s a conversation about reimagining the factory floor - from digital sampling to low-waste models, and the bold moves needed to innovate our manufacturing ecosystem to help Australian designers bring their ideas to life onshore. 

Join us as we examine the technological and cultural shifts that could shape Australia’s future as a leader in advanced manufacturing, explore leading smart factories worldwide, and hear a special announcement about how the AFC will drive innovation for the next wave of Australian manufacturing.

Fast Threat: Protecting Australian Fashion in an Ultra-Fast World
WHEN: 12-1PM, Friday, 16th May
The rapid expansion of ultra-fast fashion is reshaping global markets, presenting a critical challenge to Australia’s fashion industry. With local businesses facing unprecedented pressures around pricing, sustainability, intellectual property, and market fairness, the need for industry-wide dialogue and action has never been greater. 

In partnership with the City of Sydney, this exclusive roundtable invites guests to share insights, challenges and discuss strategies required to protect our local industry. Your perspective will play a key role in the AFC’s advocacy efforts, including our formal call for a government inquiry into ultra-fast fashion’s impact on Australia’s economy, environment and community.

 

If you have any questions about the AFC Member Lounge or issues with ticketing links for The Talks, please email: info@ausfashioncouncil.com. 

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 were open from 5pm Wednesday 15th January 2025 to Friday 31st January 2025.

Applications have now closed. Designers will be notified of the outcome shortly. 

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.

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:

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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.

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.

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

pthomas@ausfashioncouncil.com 

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