The NSW Government is funding three new runway shows at Australian Fashion Week, adding dedicated showcases for First Nations designers and an emerging talent group to the official program ahead of the event's 11–15 May Sydney run.
First Nations designers Buluuy Mirrii and Van Ermel Scherer have both been selected to present their own standalone runway shows.
Additionally, designers Haluminous, Madre Natura, Paris Jade Burrows, Suzaan Stander and Ouse will present as part of a group runway, ‘The Frontier’, showcasing a cohort of designers at a pivotal stage of growth in their careers.
Designers are being supported from development to the final showcase, incluidng all elements of event production – including venue, staging, models and show delivery – removing financial and planning barriers.
The initiative is backed by $300,000 in dedicated NSW Government funding and fulfils a commitment made under the country's first NSW Fashion Sector Strategy.
NSW Minister for the Arts John Graham said the investment was about more than fashion.
"We're breaking down barriers, opening doors and ensuring designers at a critical stage of their careers have the platform they deserve to showcase their collections and attract domestic and international buyers," Graham said.
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper pointed to fashion's broader economic weight, noting the industry generates 174,000 jobs in NSW.
"Sydney is the nation's fashion capital, and our stunning city provides the perfect backdrop for our world-class designers to showcase their works," Kamper said.
Australian Fashion Council executive chair Marianne Perkovic said the partnership with the NSW Government would directly address access barriers that have historically locked out First Nations and independent talent from Australia's biggest trade platform.
She said the aim is to connect Australian fashion with global buyers and media.
For van Ermel Scherer, the opportunity carries significance beyond the runway: "To present my own runway at Australian Fashion Week is deeply meaningful for me, for my community, and for the designers who will come after me," she said. "Visibility like this changes what feels possible."
Australian Fashion Week runs 11–15 May 2026 in Sydney.