Brumby: Business as usual

MELBOURNE: John Brumby has nailed his colours to the mast in support for Victoria's fashion industry.

The new Victorian premier - who took the helm in recent weeks following Steve Bracks' shock resignation late last month - had no plans to alter the government's support of fashion, confirmed Theo Theophanous, Minister for Industry and State Development.

In a statement issued on behalf of the premier, Theophanous said Melbourne was the fashion capital of Australia and "supporting the fashion industry remains a top priority for this government".

While Brumby's investiture comes just weeks after Melbourne lost Rosemount Australian Fashion Week Transeasonal to Sydney, commentators - including L'Oréal Melbourne Fashion Festival director Karen Webster -- were upbeat.

"Over the years, John Brumby has been an active participant and guest of the festival and we sincerely look forward to working with him. In his previous role of Minister of Innovation he has been well informed in understanding opportunities for creative industries."

The Council of Textile and Fashion Industries of Australia (TFIA) described Brumby's tenure as "a positive for industry".
"John Brumby has always been very supportive of initiatives like the TCF Technology Network and certainly for the TCF manufacturing sector his premiership will be a bonus," confirmed a TFIA spokesperson.

The premier was also praised by Marie Kinsella, head of Fashion Exposed organiser Australian Exhibitions and Conferences, for "his support of industry, the business community and technical innovation".

"We feel he will be a great enthusiast for Victoria's fashion industry," Kinsella added.

Meanwhile Melbourne Fashion Incubator head Cindee Smith described the new regime as an opportunity for industry.
"Any new premier will be looking to promote himself and his government. If he is well informed he will know that Victoria is a leader in fashion and has a good reputation and great potential internationally. He would be mad not to invest in and promote Melbourne as a fashion capital."

While the government was renowned for its recent heavy investment in Melbourne's sporting events, it was hoped Brumby would recognise the worth of the city's other main drawcard, she said.

"I think we've had enough of football; the footballers' wives and girlfriends are certainly more interested in fashion now. Just check out the dresses they wear to the Brownlow Medal ceremony these days."

By Belinda Smart