Made in Melbourne 2030: Fashion, AI-Powered Retail & New Consumers

A one-hour panel discussion exploring how Melbourne’s fashion ecosystem can respond to the future of fashion, including AI-powered retail, sustainability, changing consumer behaviour, new business models and the expectations of future consumers.

We’ll look forward and examine how emerging designers, fashion startups, local brands, retailers and industry partners can work together to build more innovative, resilient and responsible fashion businesses with the power to weather industry evolution.

PANELLISTS

Ben Kaminsky

Co-founder at Textile Recyclers Group and Managing Director Spring Import & Export Company

With over 30 years in the apparel industry, Ben knows fashion production from the inside out. He learned the ropes right on the factory floor of his family’s Australian manufacturing business before expanding globally to build a trusted, decades-long supply network across Asia. After years of delivering end-to-end apparel solutions for major international brands, Ben is now using his deep industry roots to push for a greener future. Today, he champions circular fashion and eco-friendly supply chains through his active work with Textile Recyclers Australia (TRA) and Compostable Plastics Australia (CPA).

MODERATOR

Daniele Volpe

Postgraduate Lecturer | Academic Mentor | Startup Adviser

Daniele Volpe is a postgraduate lecturer, academic mentor, startup adviser and business strategist specialising in marketing, strategic planning and go-to-market execution. Drawing on consulting and university experience in Australia and overseas, he helps startups, established brands and emerging leaders build partnerships, sharpen critical thinking and translate ideas into practical growth.