TALENT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME

Back for 2025, the Talent Development Programme is a series of long-standing initiatives designed and managed by the Festival to deliver industry mentorship, education, networking, retail opportunities, exposure and acknowledgement to the next generation of fashion designers and creative talent. It provides support through education, post-grad and early stages of business to help emerging talent build and sustain their craft and careers.    

The Talent Development Programme will include the following four initiatives in 2025.    

NATIONAL DESIGNER AWARD X DAVID JONES

Australia's most prestigious fashion award that recognises and amplifies Australian fashion brands in their first eight years of business. Finalists will gain invaluable mentorship, networking and retail opportunities. In addition to our National Designer Award winner, we also award an Honourable Mention for Sustainability and People’s Choice.

NATIONAL GRADUATE SHOWCASE X EMPORIUM MELBOURNE

SUPPORTED BY FASHION JOURNAL

Celebrating the groundbreaking work of Australia’s most visionary fashion students in the final year of their degree. Finalists are chosen through a nationwide selection process to have their collections presented to industry, media and consumers on our world-class Premium Runway.

FASHION FILM AWARDS

An internationally recognised platform for fashion filmmakers to showcase their remarkable work, shining a deserving spotlight on fashion film as a key communication platform for both designers and filmmakers. We invite filmmakers of all backgrounds to submit their work, offering prizes that provide exceptional exposure to a diverse Festival audience and significant online recognition.

FASHION WRITING MENTORSHIP

Providing a concrete pathway for aspiring fashion writers and students to gain real-world industry experience while making invaluable connections within the fashion journalism landscape. Mentees will be handpicked by a distinguished panel of Australian journalists, granting four applicants the privilege of covering various Festival events.