The Melbourne and Olympic Parks precinct is set to have its entire staff's uniforms redesigned by Honour students from RMIT's Bachelor of Fashion (Design).
The Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula announced 10 groups of Honour students who will reimagine the uniform of the precinct's 1000-strong workforce which includes operations staff, ushers, security and management.
The students have attended major events at Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena, Melbourne Arena and AAMI Park to gain valuable insights and inspiration to inform their designs.
Pakula said that the opportunity draws on three major factors of Melbournian lifestyle.
"This is a wonderful project that brings together three of the things we love about Melbourne – sport, major events and fashion. This high-profile project will open doors for up-and-coming designers," he said.
Dean of RMIT School of Fashion and Textiles Professor Robyn Healy said that the project provides an opportunity for students to gain real-world experience.
"This is a significant opportunity for our students to work on a major project alongside industry partners. Our students were very excited to be invited to create a fresh contemporary look that is both appealing to the wearer and sports fans, and is distinctively Melbourne," she said.
The winners will be announced in August, who will then pair with uniform designer and supplier Cargo Crew to have the new uniforms ready for the Australian Open in 2020.
The winners will also be flown to Paris Fashion Week where they will be hosted by the Australian Fashion Council and will attend the signature event at the Australian Embassy.
CEO of Melbourne and Olympic Parks Brian Morris said the new designs will be seen by millions across Australia and the world.
"The project provides an exciting platform for the students, with our staff coming in contact with 2.5 million visitors each year, and seen by millions around the world during the broadcast of the Australian Open," he said.