A major change in the management of the event will occur when the Australian Fashion Week (AFW) is taken over by the Australian Fashion Council (AFC) for its Resort 2026 exhibition. This change follows the announcement by IMG Fashion Events & Properties that it will no longer be hosting AFW, a major event in Australian fashion for more than 20 years.
Background
IMG has been crucial in promoting both well-known and up-and-coming Australian designers, thus their departure has left AFW’s future unclear. During their time, they showcased well-known companies like Dion Lee and Zimmermann, raising the event’s popularity internationally. The sustainability of AFW under IMG’s direction has been questioned, nevertheless, in light of recent difficulties, including the departure of important sponsors and a drop in runway performances.
The Vision of the AFC
Now that the AFC is in charge, there is a renewed emphasis on developing a platform that takes into account the particular requirements of the regional fashion sector. The “not-for-profit model” that the AFC seeks to adopt is thought to be more in line with the organizational frameworks of prosperous fashion weeks in Paris and Milan. It is anticipated that this approach will place a high priority on supporting local designers and becoming involved in the community, which will ultimately increase Australia’s visibility in the global fashion industry.
The AFC Chair, Marianne Perkovic, stressed that this shift offers a chance for the sector to be represented by people who know it best. To make sure that AFW not only showcases Australian talent but also promotes social and economic advantages for the industry as a whole, the AFC intends to work closely with designers and stakeholders.
Industry Assistance
The AFC has received strong support from a number of industry leaders, such as Edwina McCann, Editorial Director at Conde Nast Australia, and Simon Lock, founder of AFW. This backing shows that people in Australia want fashion events to be more locally led. AFW is essential for promoting Australian creativity globally and creating a major economic impact, according to Jaana Quaintance-James, CEO of the AFC.
Implications for the Future
Industry insiders are cautiously optimistic about this new trajectory as AFW moves under the AFC administration. More information about the AFC’s plans to restructure AFW is expected to be revealed at the next annual general meeting in December. This significant event has the potential to improve Australian fashion’s economic contributions domestically and change the way it is viewed internationally.
Conclusion:
The AFC’s takeover of AFW marks a turning point for Australian fashion. AFW has the potential to develop into a more meaningful and inclusive event that appeals to both audiences and designers by promoting local talent and encouraging community involvement.
