Australia Textile Market Growth Analysis - Market Size, Share, Forecast Trends and Outlook Report (2025-2034)

Australia Textile Market TrendsThe growth of the Australia textile market caters to a wide range of sectors, including fashion, home furnishings, and medical textiles. The fashion industry is a key driver, blending local designs with international imports. Sustainability is on the rise, with increasing demand for eco-friendly materials. However, a significant portion of textiles consumed in Australia is imported, and domestic manufacturing has declined due to high production costs. A 2021 report by the Australian Fashion Council (AFC) revealed that the sector contributes 1.5% to Australia's GDP, generates more export revenue than wine and beer, and employs more people than the mining and utilities sectors.Technological innovations are influencing the Australia textile market dynamics and trends, particularly with the rise of smart and functional textiles. E-commerce is expanding rapidly, enabling consumers to shop for textiles online. Home textiles , such as bed linen and towels, are an important market segment. The demand for customisation and niche products is increasing, with brands offering bespoke options. High labour costs continue to encourage reliance on offshore production.Australia Textile Market GrowthThe demand for the Australia textile market is growing as consumers increasingly favour ethical brands and demand transparency in production processes. Australia’s climate affects textile preferences, with light fabrics for summer and warmer materials for winter. Government regulations, such as trade policies and environmental standards, influence the market. The wool industry continues to play a key role, with collaborations between textile companies and designers creating distinctive collections. In May 2021, the government awarded the AFC USD 950,000 to support the creation of an Australian Fashion Certification Trade Mark (CTM), with the AFC working closely with AusTrade to leverage the Nation Brand’s insights.The circular economy is gaining momentum, with a focus on textile recycling and upcycling impacting the Australia textile market revenue. Australia exports textiles, especially high-quality wool, but these exports remain relatively limited. Ongoing supply chain disruptions, shipping delays, and fluctuations in raw material costs continue to challenge the market. The retail landscape is shifting, with physical stores under increasing pressure from the rise of online platforms. The market is expected to grow, particularly in the areas of sustainable textiles, e-commerce, and technological advancements.Australia Textile Market Insights
The Australian fashion and textile industry has the potential to deliver an additional USD 10.8 billion in economic gain over the next decade, creating 86,000 new jobs and growing to a USD 38 billion industry by 2032, according to the Australian Fashion Council report. This significant growth underscores the sector's vital role in Australia’s economic future.
Australia imports over a billion textile items annually, highlighting the country’s heavy reliance on international supply chains. With Australians purchasing nearly 15kg of clothing per person each year, the demand for imported goods remains high, showcasing the market’s scale and importance in global trade, as noted in the Australian Fashion Council report.
The Australian textile industry currently generates more than 489,000 jobs across various functions, from manufacturing to retail. This broad employment base supports the economy and provides diverse opportunities for skill development, as per the industry reports. As the industry grows, it will continue to drive job creation and workforce expansion.Industry News April 2023 Rivertex Technical Fabrics established Rivertex Australia Pty Ltd to strengthen its presence in the Australian and New Zealand markets. Gavin Hodgins was appointed Managing Director. Rivertex also joined the Specialized Textiles Association and participated in SuperExpo 2023, showcasing innovative, sustainable fabrics for various industries. March 2023 Australia became the first country to set a world-first standard for composting textiles. Led by lingerie designer Stephanie Devine, the proposal was accepted by Standards Australia after 18 months of collaboration. This initiative aims to tackle the 227,000 tonnes of fashion waste sent to landfills annually, promoting sustainable textile disposal.Australia Textile Market Drivers Sustainability Trends Sustainability is increasingly at the forefront of opportunities in the Australia textile market, driven by rising demand for eco-friendly products such as organic cotton, recycled fabrics, and biodegradable textiles. Consumers, more conscious of fast fashion's environmental impact, are favouring brands with ethical production methods. This shift is encouraging manufacturers to adopt cleaner production techniques, minimise waste, and embrace circular economy models, such as textile recycling. Companies are also investing in sustainable materials, like plant-based dyes and low-impact production processes, to cater to the growing demand for responsible consumption. In June 2024, the Australian government introduced the Seamless Scheme, aiming to establish a circular textile industry by 2030. With over 200,000 tonnes of textile waste disposed of annually, the scheme, starting July 1, 2024, involved 62 brands working to reduce waste and foster sustainability. Technology and Innovation Technological innovations are boosting the Australia textile market growth, particularly with the rise of smart fabrics and functional textiles. Developments like moisture-wicking, UV-protective fabrics, and sensor-embedded textiles are becoming popular in sectors such as sportswear, health, and safety. Furthermore, automation and AI-driven production are enhancing efficiency, cutting labour costs, and speeding up manufacturing. The emphasis on digital design tools and 3D printing also allows for custom-made textiles, offering greater flexibility and personalisation. In November 2024, Techtera visited Australia as part of the EuroBoosTEX project to explore opportunities for collaboration in textile innovation, focusing on sustainability, circularity, advanced fibres, and recycling technologies. Opportunities in the Australia Textile Market The growth of online shopping is a major trend in the Australia textile market, driven by consumers’ desire for convenience and a wider selection of products. E-commerce platforms have broadened the reach of textile brands, enabling both local and international companies to access the Australian market. Social media and influencer marketing are crucial in boosting online textile sales, particularly in fashion and home décor. Furthermore, digital marketing and tailored shopping experiences are key drivers, with brands using data analytics to better understand consumer preferences and improve customer engagement. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reported that in the 2020-21 period, e-commerce retail contributed 41.5% of the growth in digital activity value in Australia.Market RestraintsThe Australia textile market faces multiple challenges, including high production costs, which make local manufacturing less competitive compared to low-cost countries like China. This has led to a decline in domestic manufacturing and reliance on imports, causing job losses. Supply chain disruptions, such as delays and raw material shortages, further strain businesses.Environmental concerns, such as textile waste and pollution, persist due to limited recycling infrastructure. Additionally, stiff global competition and consumer price sensitivity favour cheaper imports over local, sustainable products. Regulatory hurdles and a shortage of skilled labour also impact the industry, while economic instability can reduce consumer spending on textiles. Despite these challenges, opportunities for innovation and sustainable practices exist.“Australia Textile Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:Market Breakup by Raw Materials
Synthetic Fibres  
Nylon  
Kevlar  
Rayon  
Acrylic  
Nomex  
Spandex  
Polyester  
Others


Natural Fibres  
Silk  
Wool  
Cotton  
Jute  
Line  
Wood (Cellulose)  
Others

Market Breakup by Application
Technical
Household
Fashion & Clothing
Others

Market Breakup by Region
New South Wales
Victoria
Queensland
Australian Capital Territory
Western Australia
Others

Australia Textile Market Share Market Analysis by Raw Materials According to the Australia textile market analysis, synthetic fibres such as polyester and nylon dominate due to their durability, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. These fibres are lightweight, resistant to wrinkles, and quick-drying, making them ideal for activewear and outdoor apparel. Furthermore, synthetic fibres are more affordable to produce and maintain, which contributes to their widespread adoption in both fashion and industrial textiles. In February 2024, Intimiti Australia launched Celys, a compostable polyester fibre made from recycled materials. This fibre is 95% compostable and biodegradable within 179 days, helping to reduce microplastic waste in the fashion industry while offering moisture management and compatibility with natural fibres.The growth of the Australia textile market is also boosted by the increasing demand for natural fibres such as cotton, wool, and linen. These fibres are valued for their sustainability, comfort, and breathability, making them an attractive choice for eco-conscious consumers. Natural fibres are biodegradable, renewable, and often seen as more environmentally friendly compared to synthetics. They are especially popular in casual wear, luxury textiles, and sustainable products. In December 2022, the National Manufacturing Center for FRP Infrastructure opened in Wingfield, South Australia. This facility, the result of a four-year collaboration between Sustainable Infrastructure Systems and InfraCore, manufactures damage-resistant FRP structures like bridges and jetties, promoting sustainability, employment, and the use of recycled materials in infrastructure. Market Analysis by Application According to the Australian textile market report, technical textiles play a crucial role in various industries such as healthcare, construction, and automotive, offering enhanced features like fire resistance, waterproofing, and antimicrobial properties. These textiles improve safety, durability, and performance, with growing demand in sectors like defence and industrial manufacturing. In September 2023, GRAF Australia formed a partnership with HUESKER Australia to bring cutting-edge geosynthetic technology to the stormwater management market. This collaboration combined GRAF’s EcoBloc SMART systems with HUESKER’s Tektoseal Active PFAS Geocomposite to offer innovative solutions for managing PFAS-contaminated water effectively.The Australia textile market is also experiencing growth in the household textiles sector, where products like bedding, curtains, and upholstery are essential for enhancing comfort and aesthetics in homes. These textiles are made from durable, low-maintenance materials that contribute to the convenience of daily life. Advances in fabric treatments have led to improvements in stain resistance, durability, and sustainability. As consumer demand for environmentally friendly, high-performance household goods rises, the market is increasingly leaning toward eco-conscious options. In September 2022, Ingka Group opened its first IKEA planning studio in West Melbourne’s Highpoint Shopping Centre, offering personalised planning for kitchens and wardrobes, with more studios expected.The demand for the Australia textile market in fashion and clothing sector is increasing, driven by the diverse range of materials that offer a blend of style and practicality. Innovations in fabrics, such as moisture-wicking, UV-protective, and breathable textiles, have improved comfort and wearability. Sustainable fashion is gaining traction as more eco-conscious consumers seek ethically produced, durable, and environmentally friendly textile options. In October 2024, Designer Wardrobe expanded into Australia, bringing its pre-loved fashion marketplace, initially launched in New Zealand, to the Australian market. With more than 325,000 members in New Zealand, the platform now provides Australians access to thousands of second-hand clothing listings, including well-known Kiwi and Aussie brands, catering to the growing sustainable fashion trend.Australia Textile Market Regional Insights New South Wales Textile Market Overview New South Wales has a varied textile market, with a particular emphasis on fashion, technical textiles, and manufacturing. Its advantageous location and infrastructure encourage growth, supporting innovation in sustainable textiles and increasing demand for eco-friendly, high-performance materials. In 2023-24, major exports from New South Wales included cotton, valued at AUD 1,293 million, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Queensland Textile Market Trends Queensland's textile market is expanding, driven by rising demand for activewear, outdoor clothing, and sustainable fabrics. The state's emphasis on eco-friendly production practices and natural fibres, along with a robust tourism industry, fosters growth in both the fashion and technical textiles sectors. In 2022-23, Queensland produced 33% of Australia's cotton, according to the state government. Western Australia Textile Market Dynamics Western Australia's textile market is influenced by the mining, construction, and agriculture industries, which require durable and specialised fabrics. Focused on technical textiles and workwear, the market thrives on innovations in safety and performance, especially for harsh environments. The WA fashion and textile sector employs 41,000 people and contributes USD 2.3 billion to the national economy, with retail and services being the largest sectors (AFC 2021).Competitive LandscapeThe Australia textile market key players supply fabrics across a range of industries, including fashion, homewares, and healthcare. With over a century of experience, these companies have established strong reputations for delivering high-quality textiles that meet diverse customer needs. They are recognised for their wide product portfolios, offering fabrics for clothing, upholstery, and medical textiles, with both domestic and international brands. Focused on innovation and sustainability, these suppliers prioritise customer satisfaction and are dedicated to expanding their product ranges to keep pace with the evolving market demands.Key Industry Players Gale Pacific Limited: Headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, Gale Pacific Limited was established in 1985. The company is a global leader in the design and manufacture of innovative textile solutions, specialising in outdoor and industrial products. Their products serve sectors including residential, commercial, and industrial, with a strong commitment to sustainability. ABMT Textiles Australia: ABMT Textiles Australia, established in 1994, is based in Sydney. The company focuses on manufacturing and distributing high-quality fabrics for a range of industries, including fashion, homewares, and hospitality. ABMT Textiles is known for its expertise in providing custom textile solutions with an emphasis on quality and customer satisfaction. Caprice Australia Pty Ltd: Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Melbourne, Caprice Australia Pty Ltd is a prominent textile supplier specialising in upholstery and soft furnishings. The company provides a wide range of innovative fabric collections for the residential and commercial sectors, focusing on durability, design, and sustainability in its products. Charles Parsons & Co Pty Ltd: Charles Parsons & Co Pty Ltd, established in 1915 and headquartered in Sydney, is a leading supplier of textile products in Australia. The company offers a diverse range of fabrics for various industries, including fashion, interiors, and healthcare, with a reputation for quality and service excellence across multiple markets.Other key players in the Australia textile market report are Warwick Fabrics (Australia) Pty Ltd, 3Beaches Pty Ltd., Materialised Pty Ltd, Acoufelt Pty Ltd, Simba Global Pty Ltd., and Shaw of Australia Pty Ltd among Others

.Recent Developments April 2024 Waverley Woollen Mills in Tasmania celebrated its 150th anniversary as Australia’s oldest continuously operating textile mill. The mill produces about 40,000 blankets annually, using 40 tonnes of wool. Originally founded in 1874, Waverley became a household name, dominating Australia’s blanket market at its peak. September 2023 The Australian Research Council (ARC) launched the Research Hub for Functional and Sustainable Fibres, led by Deakin University. The initiative, involving 16 organisations, focuses on sustainability, circular economies, and reducing petroleum-based materials. ARC invested USD 5 million over five years to advance fibre technologies and reduce environmental impact. Show more