Applications closed.

3 October 2024 – Entries Open  

1. Application Form (Award Force) 

2. Current collection lookbook  (submitted via Award Force application process)

3. Past collection lookbook  (submitted via Award Force application process)

1. The label has been established for less than 8 years (having launched its first part or full range collection after 1st January 2017)

2. The label has been available for purchase for at least 12 months

3. Your collection will be available for purchase in March 2025 (ready to wear or made to order)

4. The label’s main place of business is based in Australia

5. You are available to be in Melbourne on 20 February and 4 March 2025   

6. Your collection has a minimum 6 full looks ready to present to the judging panel

Each weighting number denotes the maximum number of points attainable within the respective category. 

Judging Criteria: ROUND 1

1. Innovative, creative, cohesive design aesthetic [40] 

2. Clear vision for brand [20] 

3. Strong understanding of fashion business & strategic marketing [15]    

4. Commitment to sustainability [15] 

5. High quality manufacturing [10] 

Judging Criteria: ROUND 2

1. Innovative, creative, cohesive design aesthetic [40] 

2. High quality manufacturing and garment construction [25] 

3. Commitment to sustainability [15] 

4. Strong understanding of fashion business & strategic marketing [10]  

5. Clear vision for brand [10] 

HONOURABLE MENTION FOR SUSTAINABILITY CRITERIA:  

All areas weighted equally. 

• Animal Welfare – The label considers the welfare of animals and may use animal free alternatives or practices that are recognised for animal welfare standards.   

• Circular Mindset – The label recognises the need to reimagine finite resources using recycled fibres/materials; minimises waste throughout the value chain; offers initiatives to reuse, repair or recycle; and designs products with end-of-life in mind. 

• Disruptive and/or Unique Business Model – The label brings a unique offering to the fashion industry that reflects the evolution of customer behaviour and the needs of a changing climate. 

• Diversity & Inclusion – The label demonstrates a diverse and inclusive approach to all aspects of business practice. 

• Environmental Impact – The label supports regenerative agriculture, biodiversity, renewable energy, responsible farming practices and/or other projects that address environmental impact in the supply chain.  

• Ethics & Social Impact – The label demonstrates a genuine commitment to improving social impact, ensuring fair working conditions and a valued relationship with garment workers.   

• Investment in Innovation – The label adopts leading innovations and seeks cross-sector collaboration to address environmental impact and/or to progress industry standards.  

• Indigenous knowledge, artisan techniques and cultural preservation- Respectful integration of traditional craftsmanship and ancestral wisdom, with a focus on conserving cultural heritage and supporting the livelihoods of local communities. 

• Packaging – The label offers more responsible / innovative packaging options with a focus on environmental impact. 

• Transparency & Customer Education – The designer provides clear, detailed information to customers and the general public about their brand practices and how they are addressing environmental and social impact. 

All Finalists

• Major PR, marketing and social media exposure through integration into the Festival and David Jones’ campaign activity

• Opportunity to present work to esteemed, high calibre judging panel  

• Showcase collection as part of an exciting new winner's announcement event concept within the official 2025 PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival programme 

• Content package including event photography and video 

• Suite of VIP invitations to the 2025 Festival’s premium events, including the 2025 PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival official launch event 

NDA Winner

• $20,000 + GST Cash Prize  

• 2025 National Designer Award trophy

• David Jones Ranging Inclusion (minimum buying $50,000): the opportunity to showcase your collection at David Jones Flagship stores and online at www.davidjones.com

• David Jones VM installation showcasing elements of the winner's collection

• Dedicated high value PR and marketing campaign integration across the Festival and David Jones' channels including social media, EDM, website and PR activity

• Media training session with fashion publicity specialists, AMPR

• Legal business advisory package from K&L Gates to the value of $5,000 (plus GST)

• David Jones Voucher ($1,000) 

Honorable Mention of Sustainability

• $10,000 + GST Cash Prize 

• 2025 Honourable Mention for Sustainability Trophy

• David Jones Mentorship

• David Jones in-store collection display 

• David Jones Voucher ($1,000) 

• Inclusion in winner's announcement press release and social media content  

• Media training session with fashion publicity specialists,  AMPR

People's Choice Award 

• 2025 People's Choice Award Trophy  

• David Jones Voucher ($1,000) 

• Inclusion in winner's announcement press release and social media content 

View full terms and conditions HERE.