EOI: BE PART OF REBUILDING AUSTRALIA'S FASHION & TEXTILE MANUFACTURING FUTURE

Please note: This is an expression of interest only. Confirmed attendees will be contacted with further details.

The Australian Fashion Council (AFC) and R.M.Williams invite you to participate in a landmark industry consultation for Australia's first-ever National Manufacturing Strategy for the fashion and textile industry.

With 97% of Australia's $28 billion fashion industry currently manufactured offshore, this strategic collaboration aims to rebuild sovereign manufacturing capability, create jobs, and enable Australia to compete globally through innovation and advanced technology.

EVENT DETAILS
WHEN: 9:30AM - 1:00PM, Wednesday, 30th July 2025
WHERE: Waverley Mills, 45 Waverley Rd, Launceston TAS 7250
At the conclusion of the forum, attendees will be offered a bespoke private tour of the Waverley Mills facility. This 60-minute experience will showcase the unique credentials of Australia’s oldest operating woollen mill. Guests will witness every stage of the manufacturing process—carding, spinning, dyeing, weaving, and finishing—providing a rare opportunity to gain insight into the Mill’s 151-year legacy and its bold vision for future growth.

AGENDA
9:30am - 10:00am: Networking & Morning Tea
10:00am - 12:00pm: Industry Consultation
12:00pm - 1:00pm: Tour of the Waverley Mills Facility

WHAT WE'LL DO TOGETHER
This consultation will bring together manufacturers, brands, and educators to:

Map existing manufacturing capabilities across the fashion and textile sector
Identify critical gaps and opportunities for growth and innovation
Develop targeted recommendations for both industry and government
Build a framework to protect and create jobs in both regional and urban areas
Create pathways to strengthen genuine ‘Australian Made’ production

Your expertise and perspective are essential to developing a comprehensive strategy that addresses the real challenges and opportunities faced by Australian fashion and textile businesses, from raw materials to finished products.

Following industry consultation, the AFC and R.M. Williams will engage with key stakeholders to implement the strategy, which will be released in late 2025.

This is your opportunity to help shape the future of Australian fashion and textile manufacturing and be part of a movement to rebuild our sovereign capability, protect industry jobs, and create new high-skilled positions across the country.

REGISTER NOW TO SECURE YOUR PLACE