M/FW Independent Partner events

⁠⁠⁠Melbourne Fashion Week (M/FW) would like to hear from designers, retailers, hospitality venues, galleries, photographers, film makers and other creative practitioners who are interested in producing their own event or activity as part of M/FW 2026. 

All Independent events must be held within the City of Melbourne municipality (see map below) or be presented online during the M/FW program dates 20 to 26 October 2026. Events must be produced by a Melbourne-based entity and/or showcase local designers or Ycontent.

All types of businesses, community groups and individuals can express interest in being a part of the M/FW Independent events and activities. Your core business/function does not have to be fashion.

Priority will be given to event organisers who promote or showcase unique aspects of the Melbourne fashion and design community, who align with one or more of M/FW’s key pillars: sustainability, diversity and design innovation.

Benefits

• A full page on the official M/FW Website promoting your event
• Association with the M/FW brand and event
• Access to M/FW marketing collateral and assets
• Consideration for PR and social media opportunities

Requirements

• Event must take place within the City of Melbourne municipality boundaries (if an in-person event).
• Events must be produced by a Melbourne based entity or showcase Melbourne designers or content (if digital event).
• Events must take place within the M/FW dates: 19 to 25 October 2026.
• Events must be delivered to a professional standard.
• Events should clearly refer to fashion, design, arts, and other creative industries.
• Successful applicants must attend scheduled production meetings and provide regular updates on the event elements' progress, including regular ticket sales updates if required, as requested by the City of Melbourne.
• All applicants must provide current certification of $20 million public liability insurance (PLI) coverage.
• Events must use the M/FW 2026 logo (minimum) on all event communications and promotions relating to the participation in the M/FW Program.
• Events must display M/FW promotional material (such as the official program).
• Events must encourage ticket sales through their own marketing and social media platforms.
• Events must participate in official event research conducted by the City of Melbourne during and post event if necessary.
• Event must comply with the M/FW photography and videography guidelines. Guidelines will be provided by M/FW.
• Events must comply with the M/FW Exotic Animals Policy. Guideline details included within the EOI terms and conditions.
• Events must align and comply with the M/FW Inclusion and Equity Policy.
• Any live or pre-recorded events, including photo shoots that include models, performers or any other talent, must adhere to M/FW’s Talent Engagement Guidelines. Guidelines will be provided by M/FW.

Applications are now open and close 5pm Friday 29 May.

Late entries will not be accepted beyond this date. Please apply with all details available

before the deadline to be considered for inclusion.