The Australian Fashion Council (AFC), in partnership with the NSW Government and Austrade, has announced its most ambitious international trade mission yet through the Global Gateways: Paris 2026 program, aimed at expanding global opportunities for Australian fashion brands.
As part of the initiative, up to 15 Australian designers will participate in a dedicated Australian showroom during Paris Fashion Week Womenswear SS27, scheduled from 28 September to 6 October 2026. The program will provide participating brands with export readiness training, international buyer engagement opportunities, and networking events designed to strengthen global market access.
The announcement follows the successful completion of Australian Fashion Week 2026, which featured 51 events and attracted leading international buyers and media representatives. The Australian fashion industry contributes approximately $27.2 billion to the national economy, supports around 489,000 jobs, and generates $7.2 billion in annual exports.
Under the Paris initiative, participating designers will receive structured support before departure, access to a centrally located showroom, and opportunities to connect directly with global buyers, retailers, and fashion media. The program will also include engagement at the Australian Ambassador’s Residence and exclusive industry networking events during Paris Fashion Week.
Applications will be open to both emerging and established designers across Australia, including dedicated places for First Nations designers. The program is supported through Austrade’s Accessing New Markets Initiative (ANMI) and the NSW Government’s Fashion Sector Strategy 2025–2028.
Industry leaders described the initiative as a major step toward strengthening Australia’s global fashion presence and creating sustainable export pathways for local brands. By establishing a coordinated national platform in Paris, the AFC aims to help Australian designers build long-term international partnerships and accelerate export growth in key global markets.
