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.
Australian Fashion Council is planning to take the reins of the event, turning it into a new not-for-profit model.
According to AFC, the new model is expected to evolve into a platform that elevates Australian fashion on the global stage, benefits designers, and prioritises the needs of local industry that generates over $28 billion for the Australian economy.
“The time has come for Australian fashion to be represented by those who know it best—our own community,” AFC chair Marianne Perkovic said.
According to the Australian Financial Review, Perkovic confirmed the council - with backing from the NSW Government and industry delegates - is aiming at least to keep AFW on-track in 2025. Prior to IMG's exit, Fashion Week was planned to run from May 12 to 16.
AFC CEO Jaana Quaintance-James said the AFC has the insight, commitment, and industry focus to lead Australian Fashion Week which “truly reflects the strength, resilience, and creativity of our industry.
“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,” Quaintance-James said. “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.”
Meanwhile, Carla Zampatti CEO Alex Schuman said having a not-for-profit organise Australian Fashion Week will be a “game-changer”, adding that this is how other successful fashion weeks like Milan and Paris operate.
“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,” he said.
The AFC has garnered broad support across the industry including Australian Fashion Week founder Simon Lock and Vogue Australia editorial director Edwina McCann.
A variety of industry delegates, including Australian designers and brand leaders, are expected to attend a media scrum this morning to announce the news. This includes the likes of Camilla & Marc, Christopher Esber, Aje, Cue, Bianca Spender, and others who have been part of AFW in recent years.
“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,” Minister for the Arts, Music and the Night Time Economy, John Graham said.