Simply fill in the application form via the link below, submitting your current lookbook and/or collection imagery, along with the required information about your proposed collection.
Applications open Wednesday, September 30, 2026 and close Wednesday, October 21, 2026.

All applications are reviewed by the PayPal Australian Fashion Festival Programming team in collaboration with Mob in Fashion and assessed against the following criteria:

• Quality Construction: Garments and accessories demonstrate a strong standard of construction, craftsmanship and finish appropriate to the designer’s practice.

• Design Cohesion & Creativity: A considered and cohesive collection with a clear creative vision and point of view.

• Cultural Practice & Integrity: Where cultural knowledge, practices, techniques or traditions inform the collection, these are represented with cultural integrity, respect and consideration for community and cultural protocols.

• New Work: The proposed collection features original work that has not previously been showcased publicly.

Successful applicants will be notified Tuesday, October 27, 2026. If you have any questions about applying, get in touch with our Programming team at programming@australianfashionfestival.com.au.

The designer applying to participate in the runway must themselves identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.

The proposed collection must include a minimum of eight complete looks and feature original work that has not previously been showcased publicly.

Successful applicants will be notified Tuesday, October 27, 2026. If you have any questions about applying, get in touch with our Programming team at programming@australianfashionfestival.com.au.

Wednesday, September 30, 2026 | Applications open

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 | Applications close

Thursday, October 22, 2026 | Application review begins

Tuesday, October 27, 2026 | Applicants notified of outcome

Wednesday, March 3, 2027 | First Nations Runway

View the Terms & Conditions​ here.

Apply Here