IMG ends management of Australian Fashion Week, raising concerns for local designers

IMG has announced it will no longer manage Australian Fashion Week, which it has run since 2005. This change raises concerns about the event's future and its ability to support local designers and models. The event has struggled with declining relevance as digital sales grow and international buyers become less interested. While it has made efforts to include emerging designers and broaden its audience, attendance and industry interest have waned. The Australian Fashion Council aims to lead discussions on the event's future, but many designers feel unrepresented and are exploring other options. Securing sponsorships has also become more difficult, as brands shift focus to other events.