The Northern Territory will become the epicentre of Aboriginal fashion following the Territory Labor Government’s announcement that the inaugural National Aboriginal Fashion Awards will be launched in Darwin next year.

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Culture, Lauren Moss made the announcement last night at the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair opening ceremony.

Along with the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards and the National Indigenous Music Awards, they will cement the Territory’s reputation as an Aboriginal arts and culture hub.

The success of the textile design movement in remote Aboriginal communities has led to exciting collaborations with well-known Australian designers and it is anticipated the Awards will form part of the national event calendar celebrating fashion excellence.

The Awards will receive funding from the Territory Labor Government and be run by the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair.

The Awards will become part of DAAF’s Country to Couture event.

Quotes from Minister for Tourism, Sport and Culture, Lauren Moss:

“The National Aboriginal Fashion Awards will offer new opportunities for remote Aboriginal designers and a platform to promote their unique couture creations both nationally and to the world.

“Territory Labor is committed to supporting Indigenous art which includes the burgeoning Aboriginal textile and design industry which continues to make its mark globally.”

Quotes from David Giles-Kaye, CEO, Australian Fashion Council

“The ‘From Country to Couture Runway’ is so unique and critical for the Australian fashion industry and our indigenous designers. The event generates excitement amongst industry members, consumers, and people in remote indigenous communities.

“The event provides a key platform for pathways into the fashion industry, empowering those involved to build sustainable businesses, generate income and support their communities, all the while enriching the Australian fashion landscape. A national Aboriginal fashion award is an amazing next step to celebrate this thriving industry.”

Quotes from Franchesca Cubillo, Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Foundation Chair

“The Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Foundation is so proud to provide vibrant platforms to support Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander artists and Art Centres. Our fashion programs are having an incredible impact on the Indigenous art sector and this is an exciting time for the industry.

“DAAFF has been working to develop the concept of the National Aboriginal Fashion Awards, and we are now so excited to present it in 2020. This award will showcase talented Indigenous Australian artists, and share their amazing fashion and textile designs to the world.”

Media contact: Lisa Sennett 0436 929 858