Global Sourcing Expo Melbourne has announced its 2026 seminar programme, bringing together fashion, textile, retail and sourcing professionals for three days of practical discussions on supply chains, sustainability, manufacturing and business growth.
The seminars will run alongside the exhibition from 17–19 November 2026 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Each session will last approximately one hour, with tickets priced at AUD 40 plus GST.
Seminars Address a Changing Global Sourcing Landscape
The programme has been developed to help fashion and textile businesses respond to changing market conditions and make better sourcing and production decisions.
Topics will include supplier selection, ethical production, tariffs, logistics, minimum order quantities, textile materials, certifications and supply-chain resilience. Sessions will also examine circular fashion, product longevity, recycling, Digital Product Passports and the growing compliance requirements facing international fashion companies.
One of the opening sessions, presented by global fashion strategist Jude Kingston, will focus on sourcing and sustainability for fashion entrepreneurs. It will offer practical guidance on working with manufacturers, managing product development and building sourcing strategies that balance profitability with environmental and social responsibilities.
A second session will explore how fashion entrepreneurs can strengthen sales, pricing and customer-acquisition strategies while expanding through wholesale, retail, e-commerce and direct-to-consumer channels.
Australian Textile Manufacturing Returns to the Agenda
Local manufacturing will be another important theme of the 2026 programme. A panel titled “Made in Australia: The Reshoring Movement Gaining Momentum” will examine renewed interest in rebuilding Australia’s textile, clothing and footwear production capabilities.
The discussion will bring together representatives from Silver Fleece, LoomTex, the Australian Fashion Council and Australian fashion designer Sarah Lloyd. Panellists are expected to address the commercial realities of domestic production, the revitalisation of established textile businesses and the opportunities emerging for Australian-made fashion and textiles.
Another session led by Australian Fashion Council Executive Chair Marianne Perkovic will consider the future of the country’s fashion industry amid changes in global supply chains. The discussion will also cover local manufacturing ambitions and the role of Australia’s international sourcing partnerships.
The programme will additionally feature sessions on merchandise planning, inventory, landed costs, lead times and the use of sales data and AI-supported analysis. These subjects are becoming increasingly important as fashion businesses seek to improve margins and reduce the risks associated with overproduction and poorly coordinated purchasing decisions.
Expo to Connect Australian Buyers With Global Suppliers
Global Sourcing Expo Melbourne connects Australian and New Zealand buyers with international manufacturers and suppliers across apparel, textiles, footwear, accessories, homewares and related categories.
The 2026 edition will be co-located with the China Clothing Textiles Accessories Expo, expanding the range of sourcing opportunities available to visitors. Manufacturers and suppliers from countries including India, Pakistan, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Türkiye and South Africa are expected to be represented.
Read more: Global Sourcing Expo Melbourne Returns This November as Opportunities Continue to Grow
In addition to the seminar programme, the exhibition will offer trade visitors opportunities to compare suppliers, explore new products and discuss sourcing requirements directly with international manufacturers.
Free trade registration for the exhibition is open, while participation in the seminar sessions requires separate paid registration.
