Brad's Blog

Oclean launches award-winning AI-powered X Ultra S Smart Sonic Electric toothbrush in Australia

SYDNEY, 29 October 2024 – In one of the most anticipated product arrivals of the year, oral healthcare specialists Oclean have now launched their unique, groundbreaking and award-winning range of products in Australia, led by the AI-powered X Ultra S Smart Sonic Electric Toothbrush

The AI-powered X Ultra S Smart Sonic Electric Toothbrush

Oclean Asia Pacific MD Chris Wang explained, “Oclean products have been successful in many countries around the world due to their unique technology, so there was a huge demand for the range from our Australian partners and consumers alike. So, I’m delighted to announce that we have officially partnered with DSTech and Shaver Shop for our Australian launch, starting with our Best of CES award-winning AI-powered X Ultra S Smart Sonic Electric Toothbrush

X Ultra S with built-in Smart Touchscreen

Oclean, together with their partners at Shaver Shop, saw a gap in the Australian market for their affordable, high-tech range, consisting of aesthetically focussed products that don’t compromise on quality or functionality.

For Oclean, extensive consumer research clearly demonstrated that tech-savvy Australian consumers were looking for better, more aesthetically pleasing oral care products with efficient cleaning, longer battery life, competitive pricing and cutting-edge technology.

It is in these areas where the X Ultra S excels.

For better performance and cleaning, the X Ultra S uses its proprietary and powerful Maglev 3.0 motor with TurboClean function. The Maglev 3.0, designed by Oclean, features an algorithm delivering up to 42,000RPM and, critically, maintains consistent power at any battery level. The Maglev 3.0 has been proven three times more effective than a conventional sonic motor, whilst being ultra quiet in use, at less than 45dB.

We then move into where the real smarts are, starting with unique interactive brushing controlled by a fully interactive touchscreen, with five distinctive modes and festival greetings. These smart features work seamlessly with the Oclean Care+ app as well as Apple Health and WeatherKit.

In another first, the X Ultra S provides its users with an AI voice guide that works in real-time with Oclean’s self-developed smart chip and bone conduction technology, creating better brushing habits, a far better brushing experience and overall better results.

omes the solution to one of the biggest gripes for users of electric toothbrushes – a long battery life. Unlike many of its competitors, the X Ultra S easily provides up to 40 days of battery life while taking just 4.5 hours to fully charge. This, combined with its lightweight design, even while housed in its smart case, makes it ideal for home and travel.

Making the cleaning experience even more efficient are Oclean’s three exclusive brush heads – Ultra Clean, Ultra White and Ultra Gum Care with FlexFit tech. With these brushes and their clever, shock-absorbing rubber coating, the X Ultra S also improves optimal interdental cleaning and provides gum protection.

X Ultra S and Oclean Care+ app in action

As if all of that tech was not enough, users of the X Ultra S can access instant feedback about their brushing technique on the toothbrush’s smart touchscreen as well as brushing reports in the Oclean Care+ app, for an even more professional, personalised and efficient experience.

The Oclean X Ultra S Smart Sonic Electric Toothbrush comes in black and green with three replacement brush head refills and a two-year warranty. It’s available now from Shaver Shop stores and at www.shavershop.com.au for an RRP of $449.95.

Oclean X Ultra S key features
• Realtime Al Voice Guide
• Smart touchscreen provides instant feedback
• 3 times more effective cleaning from Maglev 3.0 motor with consistent power
• FlexFit Tech brush heads
• 5 modes + customised modes
• Mould-resistant nano coating and starlight design
• Up to 40 days battery life

Picture credit
The AI-powered X Ultra smart sonic electric toothbrush
X Ultra S and Oclean Care+ app in action

-Brad

Epson Australia releases first-ever Sustainability Impact Report Sharing its sustainability progress and commitment to local purpose and core values

Epson Australia releases first-ever Sustainability Impact Report
Sharing its sustainability progress and commitment to local purpose and core values

SYDNEY, 17 October 2024 – Epson Australia has released its inaugural Sustainability Impact Report, the first-ever documented step that truly highlights and details the company’s continued commitment to driving sustainable progress across Australia and New Zealand.

The groundbreaking report for Epson Australia showcases and details the company’s dedication to operating responsibly within the earth’s limits, whilst simultaneously fostering positive relationships with people and communities and striving for continuous improvement across industries.

Epson A/NZ MD Craig Heckenberg

Epson A/NZ MD Craig Heckenberg explained, “Epson’s purpose is to enrich lives and create a better world by delivering value through innovations that are efficient, compact and precise. This philosophy drives our approach to sustainability, as showcased in our inaugural Impact Report. We are committed to integrating sustainability across our operations and products, helping reduce environmental impact while supporting our partners and customers in achieving their own sustainability goals. While we acknowledge that we don’t have all the answers yet, this Impact Report is a significant step forward and particularly important as we openly highlight both our progress and the challenges we face.”

pson Australia’s inaugural Sustainability Impact Report Highlights

Epson’s inaugural Impact Report, a first in and for Australia and New Zealand, comes after decades of work in the area of sustainability by Epson globally where underpinning everything the company does is the firm belief that that energy saving solutions, space saving innovation and ultra-high precision help to protect the natural environment and enrich communities.

Epson Australia’s Impact Report is based on the company’s initiatives and operations from April 2023 to March 2024 and highlights key achievements during this time.

These include how the company transitioned to 100% renewable electricity across all of their offices in Australia and New Zealand and how they initiated the measurement and reporting of their carbon emissions with a commitment to establishing local reduction targets – aligned with Epson’s global Science-Based Targets Initiative goals – aiming for carbon negativity by 2050.

Epson A/NZ also achieved a 50% reduction in landfill waste at their main sites and further contributed to the circular economy through the continuation of long-established recycling programs for ink cartridges and e-waste.

Dr Cathy Offord, Head of Australian PlantBank Research program, which Epson proudly supports in its efforts to develop best-practice methods for conservation

Over the year covered in the Impact Report the company also launched impactful partnerships with Botanic Gardens of Sydney, First Nations Fashion + Design and the Australian Fashion Council to support environmental, social and economic development.

Epson Australia environment and sustainability manager Fatida Un added, “We are sharing our inaugural Impact Report as a reflection of our commitment to sustainability and transparency. By highlighting our achievements and recognising areas for growth, we hope to inspire others to take similar steps in their own sustainability efforts.”

Epson Australia’s inaugural Sustainability Impact Report Summary

Epson has spent many years defining its purpose and how it drives the company’s sustainability strategy by focusing on enriching lives and creating a better world through efficient, compact and precise innovations.

Craig Heckenberg concluded, “Our company purpose guides every aspect of our operations. It empowers us to drive positive change for our customers, employees and the planet. As we look ahead, Epson Australia remains committed to creating shared value by leveraging innovation and embracing new opportunities. We recognise that we cannot achieve our goals alone and as such will continue to actively engage and collaborate with our customers, industry partners and communities in order to do so.”

To see highlights and a summary of and to download Epson Australia’s first-ever Sustainability Impact Report in full go to: https://www.epson.com.au/Impact-Report/

Picture credit
Front cover of Epson Australia’s inaugural Sustainability Impact Report
Epson A/NZ MD Craig Heckenberg
Epson Australia’s inaugural Sustainability Impact Report Highlights
Dr Cathy Offord, Head of Australian PlantBank Research program, which Epson proudly supports in its efforts to develop best-practice methods for conservation
Epson Australia’s inaugural Sustainability Impact Report Summary

Follow Epson on social media:
LinkedIn: @Epson-Australia
Facebook: @EpsonAustralia
Twitter: @EpsonAust
YouTube: @EpsonAustralia
Instagram: @EpsonAust

-Brad

D-Link launches AI-Powered Aquila Pro M60 AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 Mesh Systems

SYDNEY, 1 October 2024 – On the back of the huge reception to the recently launched AQUILA PRO AI M30 AX3000 Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6 Mesh Systems, D-Link ANZ has expanded the Aquila Pro range with its new AQUILA PRO AI M60 AX6000 Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6 Mesh Systems. These high-performance Mesh Systems, available as a Single / Add-on Unit, a 2-Pack and a 3-Pack, continue the engineering focus on addressing the three most common pain points of Wi-Fi users: coverage, speed, and usability, but to the next level. Featuring built-in AI technology, the AQUILA PRO M60 AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 Mesh Systems are set to continue the revolution of the home networking experience.

for eagle), the M60’s design concept continues the unique evolution of traditional router design. The AQUILA PRO AI M60 boasts an elegant, wall-mountable design to seamlessly blend with any decor and its five upgraded internal antennas provide even wider, more spherical coverage, making the M60 the ideal centrepiece for every connected home.

he D-Link AQUILA PRO AI M60 Wi-Fi 6 3-Pack Mesh System

As part of “D-Link Green”, D-Link’s long-running environmental initiative, the AQUILA PRO AI M60 also closely adheres to green design principles. The chassis is made from post-consumer recycled (PCR) material, promoting environmental sustainability. The packaging uses 99% natural plant-based Mineral Oil Free (MOF) ink and the gift box design reduces printing ink usage by over 55%. The M60 also leverages the Wi-Fi 6 Target Wake Time (TWT) feature to reduce power consumption and offers a health mode that automatically turns the router into an ultra-low power standby mode during the night ensuring energy efficiency.

Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice control, users can effortlessly manage their smart home. The AQUILA PRO AI M60 masterfully combines aesthetics and functionality, providing a hassle-free Wi-Fi solution that delivers seamless connectivity, lightning-fast speeds, and high levels of usability across your home networ

M60 Wi-Fi 6 2-Pack Mesh System

The AQUILA PRO AI M60 AX6000 Wi-Fi Mesh Systems use a special antenna array designed to extend a stronger Wi-Fi signal, boosting spherical coverage and eliminating dead zones. The Single / Add-On M60 provides coverage up to 280 square metres, whilst the 2-Pack M60 Wi-Fi- Mesh System covers a home up to 510 square metres, and the 3-Pack M60 AX6000 Wi-Fi Mesh System covers a simply enormous 740 square metres, delivering seamless Wi-Fi connectivity for more devices throughout even the largest of homes.

Powered by Wi-Fi 6 technology, the AQUILA PRO AI M60 delivers extreme speeds of up to 6Gbps, supporting 160MHz bandwidth, along with a 2.5G Internet WAN port and four Gigabit LAN ports supporting wired devices such as smart TVs, gaming consoles, and PCs. As a result, the M60 ensures ultra-fast Wi-Fi or Wired connections, even when the entire family is online.

The AQUILA PRO AI M60 employs innovative AI technology, including an AI Wi-Fi Optimiser, AI Mesh Optimiser and AI Traffic Optimiser to ensure superior Wi-Fi performance for all your devices. The AI Wi-Fi Optimiser selects the optimal channel for each connected device, minimising interference, whilst the AI Mesh Optimiser provides fast and reliable network coverage using auto path selection and self-healing capabilities. AI Traffic Optimiser guarantees uninterrupted 4K/8K video streaming and video calling with AI-based QoS technology, ensuring a seamless and uninterrupted experience.

The AQUILA PRO AI M60 complies with the latest WPA3 encryption and IEC 62443-4-1 standards, safeguarding your network against unauthorised access. It also offers parental controls and separate guest networks to ensure the security of all home Wi-Fi devices.

AQUILA PRO AI M60 Mesh Systems are designed to enable you to effortlessly set up your Wi-Fi network and manage it with the intuitive AQUILA PRO AI App. The AI Assistant monitors network performance and provides weekly reports, even when you are away from home, making it a hassle-free and convenient experience.

M60 AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 Mesh Systems key features
• Eco-friendly Design: With a housing made from post-consumer recycled materials and delivered in sustainable packaging, the M60 was designed to reduce its environmental impact
• Refined Aesthetics: Boasting an eagle-inspired form and a unique feather-patterned ventilation design, the M60 seamlessly complements any home décor
• Rapid Connectivity: Revel in speeds up to 6Gbps with an extra antenna on the faster 5GHz band, assuring seamless video streaming, video conferencing, and smooth gaming
• Uninterrupted Wi-Fi Everywhere: Enjoy robust 360° spherical coverage courtesy of a sophisticated antenna design and advanced AI technology, ensuring fast and consistent Wi-Fi in every corner of your home
• Scale-as-you-need Mesh: Futureproof your network and easily expand your coverage by adding more AQUILA PRO AI devices to create a whole home Mesh network
• Ultra-Fast Gigabit Wired Connections: 1 × 2.5G WAN port plus 4 × Gigabit LAN ports allow you to make fast and reliable connections to wired devices like smart TVs, gaming PCs and more
• Help Protect Your Home Network: Help keep your family safer online with our premium home network security features like Advanced Parental Controls, ETSI EN 303 645 cybersecurity certification and WPA3 encryption
• Simplified Setup and Management: The intuitive AQUILA PRO AI app helps guide you through setup and monitors your network to help you keep it running at peak performance.

he AQUILA PRO AI M60 AX6000 Wi-Fi Mesh Systems are available in Australia now from www.dlink.com.au as either a Single / Add-on Unit (RRP $329.95), a 2-Pack (RRP AUD$579.95) or as a 3-Pack (RRP AUD$799.95) and from all authorised D-Link partners and retailers.

Picture credits
The new D-Link AQUILA PRO AI M60 AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 Mesh Systems
For more images go to: https://files.dlink.com.au/Products/M60/Images/, https://files.dlink.com.au/Products/M60-2PK/Images/
https://files.dlink.com.au/Products/M60-3PK/Images/

Ends

About D-Link
D-Link has designed, developed and manufactured award-winning networking, wireless, video surveillance, storage and home automation solutions for over 35 years. As a global leader in connectivity, D-Link is transforming business networks and equipping businesses to operate more efficiently. It is also a key enabler of the smart home, making it easy and affordable for people around the world to monitor, automate and control their home from anywhere, anytime using their smartphone or tablet.

D-Link’s extensive ranges of innovative, high-performing and intuitive technologies are available for both businesses and consumers through its global network of channel and retail partners and service providers.

For more information visit www.dlink.com.au or connect on
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DLinkAUNZ
Twitter: www.twitter.com/DLinkAustralia
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/d-link-australia
YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/TheDAUSMarketing
Instagram: www.instagram.com/dlink_aunz

D-Link A/NZ launches new DMS-1250 Series Multi-Gigabit Smart Managed PoE+ Switches 10-port DMS-1250-10SP and 12-port DMS-1250-12TP

D-Link A/NZ launches new DMS-1250 Series Multi-Gigabit Smart Managed PoE+ Switches
10-port DMS-1250-10SP and 12-port DMS-1250-12TP

SYDNEY, 24 September 2024 – D-Link A/NZ has introduced the new DMS-1250 Series of network switches, designed to meet the growing demand for high-performance connectivity in modern business environments.

MS-1250-10SP with eight 2.5G PoE+ ports and two 10G SFP+ ports

Featuring 2.5G ports across the range, these switches offer a significant boost in network speed, ideal for SMBs and enterprises looking to support bandwidth-hungry applications such as video conferencing, high-resolution file transfers, and cloud-based services. With advanced Layer 2 management capabilities, the DMS-1250 Series ensures seamless, scalable networking that keeps pace with the rapid evolution of digital workloads. The DMS Series of Multi-Gigabit Switches also is the perfect companion to the latest Wi-Fi Access points that support 2.5G connectivity, maximising not only LAN, but also Wi-Fi performance across the network.

The first products launched from within this new series are the DMS-1250-10SP, providing eight 2.5G PoE+ ports and two 10G SFP+ ports, whilst the DMS-1250-12TP provides eight 2.5G PoE+ ports, two 10GBASE-T and two 10G SFP+ ports.

The DMS-1250 Series employs cutting-edge PoE features that ensure reliable power delivery as
PoE+ ports provide a high-power budget to fulfill business needs. The innovative PoE functions can ensure uninterrupted power delivery to all powered devices.

utting-edge PoE features ensure reliable power delivery

PoE has a number of additional benefits including the fact that PoE switches simplify device installation by reducing cable usage and eliminating the need for separate power supplies or outlets. Perpetual PoE also provides an uninterrupted power supply to network devices, even during reboots or maintenance and Fast PoE technology reduces the time it takes for devices to become operational after connecting to the network.

The DMS-1250 Series’ PD-Alive feature is perfect for IP surveillance networks to monitor the status of connected powered devices and verify their activity.

The two new DMS-1250 PoE models also come equipped with built-in internal fans that automatically adjust across five cooling levels to prevent the device from overheating. Alternatively, administrators can manually set the fans to either Off or Quiet Mode based on the environment or operating temperature.

DMS-1250-12TP with eight 2.5G PoE+ ports, two 10GBASE-T and two 10G SFP+ ports.

The DMS-1250 Series switches also offer enhanced 6kV surge protection on all 2.5G access ports, ensuring that your network remains resilient and that your devices stay safe from electrical surges.

In addition, the DMS-1250 Series switches offer a comprehensive set of Layer 2+ capabilities, including:
• Static Routes
• IPv4/IPv6
• DHCP relay (available in future R2 firmware release)
• DiffServ QoS
• Port Mirroring
• Spanning Tree Protocol (STP/MSTP/RSTP)
• Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP)
• IGMP and MLD Snooping

There are also a variety of management tools on hand with D-Link’s Nuclias Connect and D-View 8 to meet users’ management requirements. D-Link Nuclias Controller (DNC) and D-Link Nuclias Hub (DNH) facilitate the discovery and management of multiple D-Link devices, allowing efficient configuration of settings. Additionally, the DMS-1250 Series seamlessly integrates with D-View 8, a comprehensive central network management system. Then SNMP functionality enables centralised network asset management, remote configuration and logging.

The DMS-1250 Series switches are versatile and particularly suitable for SMB environments. They provide high-speed data transmission with 2.5GE to desktops and infrastructure devices, whilst providing crucial 10G uplinks for external connectivity. This high-speed uplink ensures that the entire business can access external services without encountering data bottlenecks. Furthermore, they offer IEEE 802.3af/at (PoE/PoE+) to power remote devices.

DMS-1250 Series switches key features
DMS-1250-10SP
• Eight 2.5Gbps Multi-Gigabit PoE+ ports
• Two SFP+ ports
• PoE budget 240 Watts
• Supports Fast and Perpetual PoE
• Auto Voice and Surveillance VLANs
• Advanced Layer2/2+ Features
• Enhanced security features
• 5-speed Smart Fans with Quiet Mode
• 6kV surge protection

DMS-1250-12TP
• Eight 2.5Gbps Multi-Gigabit PoE+ ports
• Two Multi-Gigabit 100/1000/2.5G/5G/10GBASE-T ports
• Two SFP+ ports
• PoE budget 240 Watts
• Supports Fast and Perpetual PoE
• Auto Voice and Surveillance VLANs
• Advanced Layer2/2+ Features
• Enhanced security features
• 5-speed Smart Fans with Quiet Mode
• 6kV surge protection

Availability and pricing
The DMS-1250-10SP and DMS-1250-12TP are available now from www.dlink.com.au, www.dlink.co.nz and from all authorised D-Link partners and resellers in both countries for the following RRPs:

DMS-1250-10SP – AU$1349.95 and NZ$1599.99
DMS-1250-12TP – RRP AU$2199.95 and NZ$2699.99

Picture credits
The new DMS-1250-10SP
For more images go to: http://files.dlink.com.au/Products/DMS-1250-10SP/Images/

The new DMS-1250-12TP
For more images go to: http://files.dlink.com.au/Products/DMS-1250-12TP/Images/

*The power support at the powered device (PD) must comply with the power limitations specified by IEEE standards.
**The PoE budget estimates are based on lab tests. The actual power budget may vary due to environmental factors.

-Brad

Grace Lillian Lee unveils her first solo exhibition – “The Dream Weaver: Guardians of Grace” at Brisbane Festival Supported by digital print and projection partner Epson Australia

Grace Lillian Lee unveils her first solo exhibition – “The Dream Weaver: Guardians of Grace” at Brisbane Festival
Supported by digital print and projection partner Epson Australia

BRISBANE, 11 September 2024 – The highly anticipated debut solo exhibition of the renowned Australian artist and designer Grace Lillian Lee, proudly supported by digital print and projection partner Epson Australia, has debuted at the prestigious Brisbane Festival.

Epson Australia GM marketing Bruce Bealby and Grace Lillian Lee

Titled The Dream Weaver: Guardians of Grace, this showcase marks a significant milestone in Lee’s illustrious career, presenting her most extensive work to date.

Exhibits in The Dream Weaver: Guardians of Grace” at Brisbane Festival

Lee has worked closely with Epson on this remarkable showcase that sees Epson EB-L1060U and EB-L1070U projectors installed and utilised to project the immersive artistic video content in the main room and Epson’s EB-L1505U projector used to project an even larger screen in the adjacent space.

All signage for The Dream Weaver: Guardians of Grace exhibition displays was printed on the newly launched and award-winning Epson SureColor P9560, a printer specifically designed for premium photo, fine art, proofing and packaging.

Exhibits in The Dream Weaver: Guardians of Grace” at Brisbane Festival

This debut solo exhibition offers an intimate look into Lee’s creative process, featuring a collection of works that pay homage to her Indigenous roots and the powerful women who have shaped her life. Each piece in the exhibition is a reflection of Lee’s personal journey, her commitment to honouring her ancestors, and her exploration of modern art and design.

The Dream Weaver: Guardians of Grace celebrates Lee’s artistic journey, deeply intertwined with her history and rich cultural heritage.

Known for her unique ability to blend traditional practices with contemporary forms, Lee’s work explores themes of identity, community and the preservation of cultural narratives. Her intricate weaving techniques and innovative designs have garnered acclaim nationally and internationally.

Exhibits in The Dream Weaver: Guardians of Grace” at Brisbane Festival

The exhibition features eight body sculptures and eight shields; each piece represents aspects of Grace’s heritage, including her family members. The vibrant colours and intricate details reflect her lineage, spanning continents from Europe to China and the Torres Strait Islands. Visitors can expect to be immersed in a visual narrative that connects the past with the present, weaving together stories of strength and resilience.

The exhibition features an immersive video installation and soundscape designed to transport visitors into the heart of Grace Lillian Lee’s cultural narrative. The video projectors provided by Epson, which showed dynamic visuals of traditional weaving techniques and evocative landscapes, bring Lee’s artworks to life, adding layers of meaning and context to her pieces.

Accompanying the visuals, a carefully crafted soundscape blends natural sounds with traditional music, creating an atmosphere that deepens the connection between the audience and the artwork. Together, these elements elevate the sensory experience, allowing visitors to engage with Lee’s work on a profound and multi-dimensional level.

Lee said about her first solo exhibition, “This exhibition is a deeply personal journey for me. It’s a tribute to the guardians of my heritage, the women who have guided me, and the cultural threads that have shaped my identity. I hope that through The Dream Weaver: Guardians of Grace, I can share the beauty and strength of my culture with a wider audience.”

The Dream Weaver: Guardians of Grace is being displayed at Stores Studio – Brisbane Powerhouse until 21 September during the Brisbane Festival. The exhibition attracts art enthusiasts, collectors, and cultural scholars from across the country and beyond, offering them a rare opportunity to experience the work of one of Australia’s most innovative artists in a solo setting.

Exhibition Acknowledgements
Grace would also like to make a special thank you to the team at Brisbane Festival, Epson and Powerhouse Brisbane for the commitment and support for the exhibition. Grace Lillian Lee Productions is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, part of the Department of Treaty, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Communities and the Arts.

Picture credit
Epson Australia GM marketing Bruce Bealby and Grace Lillian Lee at The Dream Weaver: Guardians of Grace” at Brisbane Festival
Exhibits by Grace Lillian Lee in The Dream Weaver: Guardians of Grace” at Brisbane Festival

Follow Epson on social media:
LinkedIn: @Epson-Australia
Facebook: @EpsonAustralia
Twitter: @EpsonAust
YouTube: @EpsonAustralia
Instagram: @EpsonAust

-Brad

Victorian fashion manufacturing at a $1 billion crossroads

MELBOURNE, 3 SEPTEMBER 2024 – Victoria’s fashion manufacturing industry has reached a critical point in its evolution, new research commissioned by the Australian Fashion Council and Epson Australia has revealed.

igns by Ngali Owner and Designer, Denni Francisco being printed out on an Epson Monna Lisa digital direct-to-fabric printer

Compiled by RMIT University, the report – titled ‘Victorian TCF (Textile, Clothing, Footwear) Manufacturing: Future Jobs, Technology and Economic Growth’ – details, for the first time, the current and potential value of the almost $1 billion industry.

Although Victorian TCF manufacturing has shed 18% of its value in the past five years, key policy interventions, industry and government can together inject an additional $225m into the Victorian economy and create a further 1,500 jobs. This would be particularly beneficial for women in the sector with a survey showing over half of businesses have more than a 60% female workforce (compared to 28% in Australian manufacturing, generally).

In contrast, without preferencing and investing in the sector, on its current trajectory $98 million of value will be lost by 2030, along with 700 jobs. In addition, the State will see a loss in technical skills, an increased reliance on overseas supply chains and miss the opportunity to enhance Victoria’s reputation as a source of high-quality, innovative and sustainable products.

This research strongly demonstrates the sector can be transformed into a female-led manufacturing powerhouse, with Victoria at the forefront and identifies five key areas to drive productivity, innovation and higher wage growth. Recommendations include:

● Adding TCF manufacturing as a priority within the Made in Victoria statement;
● Strengthening government procurement policies to increase local content in uniforms, workwear and personal protective equipment (PPE) contracts;
● Developing a revitalised TCF skills and training program to full workforce skill gaps;
● Co-investment in advanced technology and jobs of the future for a sustainable, circular clothing economy; and
● Developing a national TCF manufacturing strategy, with Victoria at the forefront.

“It’s imperative to the future of Victoria’s, and more-broadly Australia’s, textiles, clothing and footwear manufacturing industry that we collectively invest in and preference local. This sector is ours to lose. By implementing these very practical and achievable recommendations we can revive the industry, retain sovereign capability in Australia in TCF manufacturing and empower Australian brands to start, remain or even return onshore,” Australian Fashion Council CEO, Jaana Quaintance-James said.

“What has also been made clear is how important swift action is for the many women employed in fashion manufacturing, and how crucial the role of a female-powered workforce will be in turning its decline around.”

Australian Fashion Council CEO, Jaana Quaintance-James

The report also highlights cost efficiencies and reduced waste that can be achieved should a smart-factory model be rolled out. Smart-factories utilise advanced technologies including digital sampling, digital printing and laser cutting to reduce waste and production lead times.

“With the help of new sustainable technology such as the Epson Monna Lisa direct-to-fabric printer, manufacturing locally can be made far more cost effective for brands, enabling made-to-order production, reducing waste to landfill and ensuring cost efficiencies,” Epson Managing Director, Craig Heckenberg said.

Epson Managing Director, Craig Heckenberg

“The smart-factory concept and technology to support it, can allow Australian brands tonproduce high quality, sustainable Australian-made clothing, for Australian consumers and abroad,” Heckenberg continued.

son Monna Lisa ML-8000 digital direct-to-fabric printer

Through adhering to the recommendations in the report, more Australian-owned labels will be able to operate entirely onshore and have the capacity and capability to continue long term.

“If the industry was adequately supported to enable brands like mine to be able to produce onshore, it would significantly help to streamline our business and take advantage of just-in-time manufacturing so critical to address sustainable activity. I’m sure many labels would feel the same. We all want to support our highly skilled talent at home, and continue to grow the Australian textiles trade, its job market and ultimately the wider economy,” said Ngali Owner and Designer, Denni Francisco.

The report is available now at www.ausfashioncouncil.com

Picture credits
Designs by Ngali Owner and Designer, Denni Francisco being printed out on an Epson Monna Lisa digital direct-to-fabric printer.
Epson Monna Lisa ML-8000 digital direct-to-fabric printer.
AFC CEO, Jaana Quaintance-James.
Epson Managing Director, Craig Heckenberg.

-Brad

Oclean launches award-winning AI-powered X Ultra S Smart Sonic Electric toothbrush in Australia

Like this:

D-Link launches AI-Powered Aquila Pro M60 AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 Mesh Systems

Like this:

D-Link A/NZ launches new DMS-1250 Series Multi-Gigabit Smart Managed PoE+ Switches 10-port DMS-1250-10SP and 12-port DMS-1250-12TP

Like this:

Grace Lillian Lee unveils her first solo exhibition – “The Dream Weaver: Guardians of Grace” at Brisbane Festival Supported by digital print and projection partner Epson Australia

Like this:

Victorian fashion manufacturing at a $1 billion crossroads

Like this: