Budding Australian fashion students will have the opportunity to learn sustainable fashion practices at a tertiary level thanks to a new course from independent education college Collarts (Australian College of the Arts).
Collarts has introduced Australia's first Fashion and Sustainability design degree, led by expert and academic Dr Rachel Matthews.
The course will educate students on the emerging global fashion practices, design and sustainability as well as exploring fashion enterprise, styling, ethical responsibility and zero waste techniques and technology.
Students will learn about the beginnings of fibres and fabrics, the design process and how to extend the life of a garment, marketing, retail and new businesses models that tap into how the retail model is changing.
Dr Matthews said that the course aligns perfectly with the sustainability movement.
"Fashion consumers want to feel good about the clothes they put on their backs.
"As a result, the industry is having to change the way it has done things previously. Not only is this helping to create a greener planet, but it’s also creating a whole new job market.
"Currently, there’s no other course like it being offered in Australia. It’s an exciting and immersive course that’s perfect for people wanting to shape the future of the industry.
"Students will learn how to create desirable fashion with a focus on sustainable, responsible and ethical consumption.
"It’s a smart investment, particularly high school leavers, and it’s the perfect opportunity for those that are interested in fashion to prepare themselves for the future of our industry.
"A rise in jobs in the sustainability sector is already happening and this will only continue to grow.
"Consumers will be demanding more transparency around how brands are operating, so the need for professionals to manage green policies and sustainable supply chains while maintaining the integrity of the brand will be crucial in the years to come," she said.
Intake will begin in January 2020 and students can choose between a a Bachelor of Design – Fashion and Sustainability or Diploma of Design – Fashion and Sustainability.