HOW TO PREPARE FOR RETAIL’S ONE YEAR DEADLINE
1.00pm Registration
1.30pm Welcome: Ragtrader Publisher, Assia Benmedjdoub
1.35pm Setting the scene: Australian Fashion Council (AFC) CEO Leila Naja Hibri
The Australian Federal Government has commenced transitioning the nation to a circular economy, with historic mandatory regulations issued this year to reduce the issue of waste in packaging. In this opening note, AFC CEO Leila Naja Hibri sets the scene for the textile and clothing industries, as calls to address the 200,000 tonnes of annual waste diverted to landfill are on the agenda.
1.40pm The path ahead: Australian Fashion Council Seamless Project Director Danielle Kent
Supported by the Australian Federal Government, a new voluntary scheme has been developed to improve the design, recovery, reuse and recycling of clothing. The Australian fashion industry has been offered a one-year window to make the program viable ahead of proposed regulation. This presentation unpacks the scheme from project manager Danielle Kent including its development, priorities and targets.
2.00pm The early adopters: Lorna Jane Founder Lorna Jane Clarkson, The Iconic Sustainability Partner Nicole Conroy, KMD Brands Head of ESG Shasta O’Loughlin
Some of Australia’s most influential fashion brands have raised their hand to fund a 12-month transitional phase for the industry. This panel session will share unparalleled insights into their involvement, priorities and critical role in leading the country’s transformation towards a new economy.
2.25pm Talking Policy: Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water branch Head of Supply Chain Initiatives Chloe Bird and Australian Fashion Council (AFC) CEO Leila Naja Hibri
The Australian Federal Government has a number of initiatives to address climate change and the environment. This fireside chat will discuss this in the context of Australia’s fashion industry.
2.45pm Afternoon tea
3.15pm Global outlook: The Growth Activist CEO Rosanna Iacono
Governments and legislators across the world have commenced unleashing a raft of new regulatory proposals this year aimed at tackling fashion waste. As major markets such as the United States and Europe gear up to address the issue at pace and scale, this presentation provides Australian fashion professionals with an insight into regulation through a global lens.
3.35pm: The power of experimentation: Piping Hot Operations and Commercial Director Kelly Yap, Lowes Chief Advisor Sarann Ryan, Wardrobe Crisis Founder Clare Press and Rip Curl Head of Innovation and Sustainability Milan Thompson.
In order to transition to circular production models, retailers need to unite economies of scale and achieve new systems, technologies and solutions for clothing waste. But that hasn’t stopped individual brands from pursuing a culture of experimentation, trialling new methods and techniques that produce garments with less impact. This panel explores these solutions, including opportunities and challenges for adopting at scale.
3.55pm A message from our partner Shopline: The Role of Unified Commerce in Sustainability
4.10pm Re-inventing the future: Decjuba Head of Sustainability Kate Carroll, Wittner CEO Catherine Williamson, Michael Hill Head of Sustainability Kerrie Hockless, RMIT Professor Alice Payne
As the Australian fashion industry prepares to formalise systems for re-using, re-purposing and recycling merchandise, this panel explores the current landscape for retailers on the path to diverting landfill. From footwear, accessories and apparel, leaders share their insights and initiatives across different product categories.
4.30pm Networking drinks
Ragtrader LIVE provides attendees with access to experts in their field, through keynote sessions and interactive panel discussions tailored to Australia’s thriving fashion industry.
Developed in collaboration with industry stakeholders, this conference offers a unique opportunity to gain insights into trends, best practices and competitive strategies.
Ragtrader Live provides companies with an opportunity to develop their teams through gaining a deeper understanding of the industry and connecting with their peers.
Through a series of networking sessions and drinks, clients can exchange ideas and establish new business relationships in between presentations.
TBA
Zinc at Federation Square, Melbourne
1:00pm – 4:30pm Tuesday 29 August 2023
Zinc at Federation Square, Melbourne