Category: Brand

Empowering Young Creatives in Design: IDL, ADA & RMIT Join Forces

Creativity has the power to build futures and transform communities. Australian Defence Apparel’s (ADA) recent collaboration with Indigenous Design Labs (IDL) and RMIT, College of Vocational Education, Fashion & Textiles centred on a learning program to empower young Indigenous designers. This partnership was built to create pathways, make meaningful connections and nurture the next generation of creative leaders.

Indigenous Design Labs is a unique, self-funded program that empowers young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander creatives with real-world opportunities in the creative industries. Established eight years ago, IDL has grown through the dedication of its young team, the guidance of volunteer mentors, and the support of corporate partners who offer a genuine hand up. Our partnership with ADA is just one example of these great partnerships.

Building Skills from Concept to Creation

At the heart of this initiative was an intensive two-day workshop led by ADA’s Lead Designer, Casey Demko, with learning and teaching support from RMIT. Participants from IDL were immersed in the core principles of design and product development, gaining valuable, hands-on experience from an industry professional.

The workshop was structured to provide a comprehensive look into the lifecycle of a product. The learning program was carefully designed to guide the young designers through critical stages of product development in the clothing space. It provided them with opportunities to activate their creativity, offering a practical framework for bringing their ideas to life.

The Creative Journey

The young designers, aged between 12 and 18 years, began by exploring research and inspiration, learning how to find and channel creative sparks into workable concepts. This foundational stage is essential for developing designs that are not only visually appealing but also meaningful. From there, they moved into ideation, sketching and concept development, translating their initial ideas into tangible designs. Casey mentored them on refining their sketches and building a cohesive vision for their products.

The program also covered the more technical aspects of design. This included setting up specifications, a crucial step in preparing a designs for manufacturing. The group also received an overview of the sampling process, which gave them a clear understanding of how a prototype is developed and approved before full-scale production begins.

From Workshop to Workplace

This collaboration was designed to deliver real-world outcomes. To make the experience even more meaningful, some of the garments created during the workshop will be put into production. A selection of t-shirts, hi-vis workwear, and caps designed by IDL’s young designers will soon be worn by ADA’s operational crews across the business.

This real result gives the creatives a chance to see their creative work manufactured and used in a professional setting. It also serves as an introduction to developing a capsule collection, offering a practical glimpse into the commercial side of the design industry.

Breaking Down Barriers and Building Futures

This partnership was inspired by its potential to have a direct impact on Indigenous businesses and youth. For many young people, entering the creative industries can feel out of reach due to systemic barriers and a lack of mentorship opportunities. Our goal, as a group was to help break down these barriers by providing a supportive platform for learning and growth.

By offering creative work and meaningful mentorship, this collaboration provides teenagers and young adults with a vital stepping stone. It’s an opportunity to build a portfolio, make industry connections, and gain the confidence needed to pursue a career in design. it represents the empowerment and enrichment of a community. Exposure to creative outlets can drive significant, positive change in a person’s life.

“It’s of immense significance to garner recognition and a hand up from major corporations, as it signals the way ahead. Partnerships like these validate what we are doing and shows our young people their is willingness from others to support them on their journey and Close the Gap on opportunity building.” says Leigh Harris, Indigenous business owner and co-founder of IDL.

A Vision for the Future

The collaboration between ADA, IDL, and RMIT is an investment in the future. We believe that by creating these opportunities, we can help empower the next generation of Indigenous designers. Their unique voices and creative expressions have the power not only to shape their own careers but also to transform their communities.

We are excited to see the incredible things these young creators will achieve and are proud to play a part in their journey. Together, we are fostering a more inclusive and vibrant design landscape where young talent can thrive.

Melbourne, Australia – Australian Defence Apparel (ADA) announces a new partnership with Tasmania Police. As Australia’s leading provider of innovative law enforcement gear, this multi-year agreement will supply Tasmania Police with the state-of-the-art ENFORCR® EVOAdapt Carrier, a groundbreaking carrier solution that sets a new standard for adaptive wearables and modularity for true customisation.

The ENFORCR® EVOAdapt Carrier, part of ADA’s award-winning ENFORCR® range, features a lightweight and body-mapped design that maximises officer efficiency and comfort. It also includes cutting-edge microclimate cooling technology and MOLLE compatibility.

ADA’s century-long history of expertise and product intelligence in the defence and law enforcement industry has driven the development of this innovative carrier. The company’s Innovation Cell is dedicated to staying ahead of the curve and providing solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern policing.

The partnership between ADA and Tasmania Police not only introduces the ENFORCR® EVOAdapt Carrier but also includes a comprehensive support system designed to meet the diverse operational requirements of modern law enforcement. The ballistic vest will be complemented by a range of customisable pouches and hi-vis integrations. In collaboration with local industry partner Armor Australia, the carrier is also equipped with advanced hard and soft armour plates, ensuring officers are fitted with intelligent, Australian-designed gear tailored to their specific job needs.

“We are excited to partner with Tasmania Police and provide them with the custom-engineered ENFORCR® EVOAdapt Carrier,” said Chris Dixon, CEO of ADA. “This partnership is a testament of ADA’s commitment to excellence and mission to equip law enforcement professionals across Australia with gear that enables them to perform at their best.”

The rollout of the ENFORCR® EVOAdapt Carrier commenced in October 2025, equipping every Tasmania Police personnel across the state with this advanced solution.

“The ENFORCR® EVOAdapt Carrier has exceeded our expectations in terms of performance, and we look forward to providing this product across our police force and equipping our officers with cutting-edge Australian-designed gear to protect themselves and carry out their duties safely.” said Inspector Mathew Adams from Tasmania Police Operational Safety Division.

This collaboration between ADA and Tasmania Police highlights the importance of industry leaders and law enforcement agencies working together to create solutions that meet the ever-changing needs of modern policing.

Melbourne, Thursday, 16th October 2025 – The Australian Good Design Awards, one of the world’s longest-running international design award programs, has announced this year’s Australian Good Design Award Winners as part of the Official Good Design Awards Week – Rewarding, Defining, and Celebrating Good Design. 

This year’s theme, “Design for Better”, underscores the vital role design plays in shaping a more balanced, inclusive, and sustainable world. From reimagining products and services to reshaping cities and systems, the Awards showcase how design has the power to drive positive change for people, planet, and prosperity. 

Among the Winners was ENFORCR® H.A.L.O. X, recognised with a prestigious Australian Good Design Award Winner accolade in the Product Design category. 

The ENFORCR® H.A.L.O. X carrier is a revolutionary load-carriage system featuring innovative built-in microclimate-regulating padding, a pioneering patent-pending laser-cut vertical and horizontal MOLLE system, and a modular architecture. Its ergonomic, lightweight design is constructed from a combination of durable, flame-resistant hybrid materials. It offers gender-specific customisation and advanced safety through Soft Armour Panel (SAP) and Hard Armour Plate (HAP) integration. 

Project Title: ENFORCR® H.A.L.O. X
Designed in: Australia
Designed by: ADA (Australian Defence Apparel PTY LTD) 

Jury Comments:
“The ENFORCR® H.A.L.O. X carrier is a revolutionary load-carriage system designed for law enforcement personnel. Clever modularity and laser cutting to achieve a greater levels of functionality. Good to see that it offers customisable inserts for different body types. This is a highly specialised design solution that incorporates a smart, adaptable architecture and clever use of high-end materials. A brilliant showcase of innovation and design impact.” 

“By pushing the boundaries of what is possible in product design, the H.A.L.O. X advances the discipline and sets a higher standard for the global military and law enforcement industry.” said Christopher Luong, Lead Tactical Designer at Australian Defence Apparel. 

“When industry, academia and end-users come together to solve wearables challenges, the result is faster iteration, better ergonomics, and solutions that perform in real-world conditions. This collaborative approach shortens the path from prototype to deployment, improves compliance and adoption, and ensures life-critical equipment like ballistic carriers deliver measurable gains in comfort, protection, and operational effectiveness.” said Chris Dixon, CEO of Australian Defence Apparel.  

Celebrating Good Design, Innovation and Impact 

The 2025 Australian Good Design Awards Ceremony will take place on Friday 17 October, at the International Convention Centre (ICC) Sydney, where more than 1,000 distinguished guests from design, architecture, engineering, and business sectors will come together to celebrate the transformational power of good design. 

At the Ceremony, Winners will receive their official Good Design Tick Trophy. The Best in Class Winners, along with recipients of the Special Accolades, the Good Design Award for Sustainability, and the Australian Good Design Award of the Year – the nation’s highest design honour, will all be announced exclusively at the Awards Ceremony. 

Record-Breaking Year for Design Excellence 

Rachel Wye, Managing Director of Good Design Australia, reflects on the calibre of this year’s entries: “The standard of Award Winners in this year’s Australian Good Design Awards was the highest on record, with game-changing projects that push the envelope of good design, design innovation and design impact. These Awards clearly demonstrate the transformational power of design to create a better and more sustainable future.” 

She added: “The projects honoured this year show how thoughtful design can drive meaningful change – from the way we live and work to how we care for our planet. The Australian Good Design Awards are proud to recognise these world-class examples of design excellence, which not only enhance human experience, but also make a profound contribution to creating a more balanced and sustainable world.” 

 Discover More: enforcr.ada.com.au/products/h-a-l-o-x/ 

Some of our toughest Kiwis are now wearing comfortable, hardwearing New Zealand wool socks, thanks to a decision by the New Zealand Defence (NZDF) to use socks made by New Zealand apparel company Norsewear.

From this month on, all new Te Ope Kātua o Aotearoa New Zealand Defence Force recruits will be kitted out in premium, durable, extra soft and super warm Norsewear socks, made from traceable merino and mid-micron wool sourced from New Zealand farms. The socks, which were put to the test against a number of other brands during a rigorous trial involving hundreds of real soldiers, sailors and aviators, are crafted by experienced sock engineers at Norsewear’s southern Hawke’s Bay factory.

Company owner Tim Deane says it’s a win for both New Zealand wool and local manufacturing, and a huge boost to the team at the heritage Kiwi business. “Thanks to the team at ADA New Zealand, who initiated talks between Norsewear and NZDF, our military are now marching out in what we believe to be the very best socks in the world. And to have NZDF recognise their superior comfort and durability in the very toughest of conditions is just magic,” he says.

It was a combination of factors that led to Norsewear’s selection, says Tim. “By using the best New Zealand wool and local manufacturing expertise, we’ve developed socks that are a step ahead of others – they don’t just last longer, they deliver great comfort and temperature control, help protect feet from injury, ward off bacteria, and are odour resistant too. That’s pretty important for our service personnel out in the field, battling the elements and in high-pressure environments. The very last thing they need to be worried about is sore, wet, or cold feet.”

Tim says securing the NZDF contract through ADA New Zealand, who had previously brought in socks from the United States, has enabled the purchase of two new state-of-the-art Italian knitting machines that are now installed and busy producing thousands of pairs of woollen socks, using Wool Integrity New Zealand certified traceable fibre from Norsewear’s South Island farm partners.

“We’ve refined our design to meet the specific needs of the New Zealand Army, Navy and Air Force, delivered at a competitive price” continues Tim. “That means the Kiwi military gets great socks, NZDF gets more flexibility on supply along with clarity of the whole supply chain, and we buy more wool from New Zealand farmers to fulfil the contract.”

Tim has also employed two more staff to meet demand in the town of Norsewear, where the socks are made. With a population of just 150, Norsewear – famous for its wide range of socks, from the ubiquitous Farm Flecks through to highly technical hiking socks – already employs a team member from around two thirds of local families.

Tony McQuillan, Director Defence Equipment Management Organisation, NZDF says the footwear is a crucial part of military clothing and Norsewear was able to prove it would meet specific standards. “Importantly, being New Zealand made and using New Zealand wool also delivers carbon footprint benefits,” he says.

Collaborating with Norsewear delivers value to the New Zealand wool industry, concludes Tim, “and it’s a positive step in the Government’s mission of supporting regional economies and reducing our reliance on overseas suppliers for contracts of this nature.

“The whole team at Norsewear is buzzing right now – we’re proud to be chosen, we’re proud to contribute, and we’re really proud to be using the very best fibre in the world to get the job done.”

To learn more about Norsewear, go to www.norsewear.co.nz

Pictured: Kate Maloney, ADA NZ and Tim Deane, Norsewear at ADA NZ’s Warehouse in Palmerston North

The Minister of Defence Awards of Excellence to Industry hold a revered place in recognising the vital contributions of industry partners to New Zealand’s Defence Force. Established in 1998 by the New Zealand Defence Industry Advisory Council (NZDIAC), these awards shine a spotlight on the skill, innovation, and dedication that underpin the nation’s defence capabilities. This year, the awards ceremony in Wellington brought together leading professionals and organisations to celebrate their outstanding achievements.

Amidst the distinguished attendees were representatives from Australian Defence Apparel New Zealand (ADA NZ), who had the honour of being nominated for the prestigious NZDF Prime Contractor of the Year award. For ADA NZ, this recognition stood as a testament to years of commitment, collaboration, and ingenuity. The team’s nomination is among the highest accolades they have received, reflecting ADA NZ’s ongoing contribution to the New Zealand Defence Force through innovative, mission-driven solutions.

During the ceremony, the exceptional efforts of diverse industry contributors were highlighted, with Defence Minister Judith Collins commending the recipients for their dedication to bolstering New Zealand’s security, economy, and workforce. “Congratulations to this year’s winners, whose work strengthens New Zealand’s defence capabilities and demonstrates the highest standards, skills, innovation and impact on local communities,” Ms Collins remarked.

Associate Defence Minister Chris Penk echoed these sentiments, emphasising the critical role industry partnerships play in maintaining a robust defence infrastructure. With around 800 companies supplying essential products and services to New Zealand’s defence base, these collaborations underpin the sector’s resilience and future growth. “Defence is a major contributor to the economy, spending hundreds of millions of dollars locally on engineering and commercial services, maintenance, repair, and training support,” Mr Penk noted.

The broader scope of these partnerships is reflected in ambitious initiatives like the 2025 Defence Capability Plan, which outlines $12 billion of planned commitments over the next four years. These investments signify the government’s dedication to enhancing military assets, equipment, and infrastructure, further strengthening the synergy between Defence and its industry partners.

For ADA NZ, being recognised during such a prestigious event underscores the talent and tireless effort of its team, led by individuals like Sarah Pender, Kate Maloney and Dr Graham Fordy. Their work exemplifies innovation and excellence, qualities that continue to elevate ADA NZ and its parent group, ADA and Logistik, on both a local and global scale.

ADA NZ expressed heartfelt gratitude at being part of a collaborative force that delivers critical solutions for defence capability. Their focus remains firmly set on pushing boundaries, setting new standards, and driving forward together in a shared pursuit of excellence.

The Minister of Defence Awards of Excellence to Industry offer more than recognition; they are a celebration of the enduring partnerships and collective achievements that ensure the strength and resilience of New Zealand’s Defence Force. ADA NZ is honoured to contribute to this legacy, and this year’s nomination serves as both validation of their efforts and inspiration for future endeavours.

Australian Defence Apparel (ADA) proudly announces that the ENFORCR® H.A.L.O. (Highly Adaptable, Load-Optimised) carrier has been recognised with the prestigious 2025 NAUMD Innovation Award for Safety. This accolade underscores ADA’s dedication to advancing safety, efficiency, and comfort through cutting-edge design and innovation for Australia’s law enforcement personnel.

This recognition celebrates the game-changing features of the ENFORCR® H.A.L.O. Carrier and reflects the vital work that ADA’s Innovation Cell undertakes to ensure that its products meet the demanding needs of modern policing.

The ENFORCR® H.A.L.O. was developed with one clear purpose: to address the real-world challenges faced by law enforcement personnel. Extensive research, rigorous testing, and close collaboration with officers in the field have produced a carrier system that balances protection, comfort, and adaptability like never before.

Key Innovations of the ENFORCR® H.A.L.O. include:

1. Modular Architecture for Customisable Protection
   The H.A.L.O.’s modular design empowers users to tailor their gear to the mission at hand. With three adaptable modes to choose from, officers can scale protection to match operational needs, whether requiring lightweight mobility or full-body coverage.
2. Microclimate-Regulating Padding
   To optimise comfort in all conditions, the H.A.L.O. integrates advanced materials that regulate body temperature. The padding helps keep officers cool during high-temperature operations and warm in colder climates, reducing physical strain and fatigue over long durations.
3. Lightweight, Low-Profile Construction
   Designed for agility, the carrier’s low-profile construction minimises bulk while delivering superior ballistic protection when paired with soft armour panels or hard armour plates. This ensures that officers remain agile and unrestricted in high-pressure situations.
4. Seamless Gear Integration
   With vertical and horizontal MOLLE systems, the H.A.L.O. seamlessly integrates operational equipment for ease of access and organisation. Additional features like smart waistband adjustments enhance usability and improve overall efficiency.

The 2025 NAUMD Innovation Award for Safety is a testament to the ADA’s continuous drive for excellence in protective apparel. ADA’s ongoing collaboration with end-users and academia has resulted in the evolution of ADA’s load carriage equipment and modular wearables, allowing the ADA’s design team to push boundaries and deliver innovative solution that directly meets the needs of law enforcement personnel,” stated Chris Dixon, CEO of Australian Defence Apparel.

For enquiries about the ENFORCR® H.A.L.O. Carrier or ADA’s product offerings, please contact our Contracts team on sales@ada.com.au directly.

ADA (AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE APPAREL PTY LTD) has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame Award for “Leader in Textile, Clothing, and Footwear”. This is a remarkable achievement for the company as VMHOFA celebrates its 22nd year.

Award winners were announced at the Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame Awards gala dinner on Wednesday, 9 October.

The Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame Awards recognises excellence in manufacturing and acknowledges leaders in innovation, sustainability, and industry advancement. Out of 129 distinguished nominees, ADA was selected for this award, highlighting the company’s outstanding capabilities at its Bendigo Manufacturing plant.

This recognition reaffirms ADA’s commitment to quality, collaboration, and ethical practices, which are the foundations of the company’s success. It also showcases the critical importance of sovereign capability and a resilient local supply chain in ensuring long-term success in the manufacturing industry.

Victoria’s $33.5 billion manufacturing sector is a driving force of the state’s economy and is made up of more than 23,000 businesses, supporting more than 260,000 jobs and exporting $25.7 billion worth of goods.

Celebrating Victoria’s Manufacturing Champions

Individual Awards

Honour Roll Service to Industry – John Krueger, Krueger Transport Equipment

Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year – Hannah Dillimore, Newform Steel Fabrication and Levi Konnerth, A.W. Bell Machinery

Young Manufacturer of the Year – Afnan Siddique, Bosch Australia Manufacturing Solutions

Woman Manufacturer of the Year – Latinka Cubitt, Catten Industries

Company Awards

Leader in Construction Technologies – Modscape

Leader in Gender Equality and Inclusion – Alstom Transport Australia

Leader in Health Technologies – CSL

Leader in Textile, Clothing and Footwear – Australian Defence Apparel

Leader in Transport and Rail – Alstom Transport Australia

Leader in Manufacturing – Stahl Metall

Manufacturer of the Year – Regional Business – Farm Foods

Manufacturer of the Year – Small Business – Assembled Threads

Manufacturer of the Year – Medium Business – Hanlon Industries

Manufacturer of the Year – Large Business – CSL

Today, ADA proudly announces a unique collaboration with the Australian Kookaburra Kids Foundation (AKKF), an organisation committed to empowering young people to thrive beyond the impacts of family mental illness; together, they are set to unveil and welcome ‘DIGGER’, the Plushie Pup with a Purpose.

DIGGER represents the commitment of ADA and AKKF to support the mental health and well-being of young individuals across Australia. With every plushie purchased, all proceeds will directly support the AKKF programs which supports the unique needs of young people from current and former Australian Defence Force (ADF) families. Through ADA’s longstanding partnership with AKKF, this initiative marks a significant stride in recognising the invaluable service of both human and four-legged heroes.

ADA is a proud founding partner of the Kookaburra Kids program. ADA’s contributions help Kookaburra Kids support young people who have family members protecting and serving our community on the front line.

Renée Coffey, CEO of Australian Kookaburra Kids Foundation, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are so excited to continue our partnership with Australian Defence Apparel. To date, ADA has generously contributed $75,000 to Australian Kookaburra Kids Foundation programs, providing crucial support to young people in families impacted by mental illness. Along with ADA’s unwavering support of Kookaburra Kids, this initiative marks a significant step forward in recognising the invaluable service of our heroic four-legged soldiers, who stand alongside their courageous human counterparts. We have eagerly anticipated the launch of this new endeavour in 2024, envisioning DIGGER, a beloved mascot, bringing joy to the hearts of many fortunate young people.”

Chris Dixon, CEO of Australian Defence Apparel echoed these sentiments, stating, “DIGGER embodies ADA’s commitment to supporting the mental health and well-being of young individuals across Australia and this initiative is a testament to our ongoing commitment to supporting young people from defence families facing adversity. Through the DIGGER Plushie Program and our partnership with AKKF, we aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of these courageous individuals and provide a beacon of hope for children navigating difficult circumstances. We are proud to be a founding partner of the Australian Kookaburra Kids Foundation, and honoured to present DIGGER as a conduit for raising funds that empower young individuals.” remarked Chris Dixon.

ADA’s Jason Semple remarked “Early intervention with a focus on the provision of psychological and resilience measures, are essential tools for emotional regulation, which in turn provide proven cognitive avenues that allow our kids to transform post traumatic events into ‘post traumatic growth’.

Teaching our kids to harness the effects of adversity in a manner which promotes positivity and long term healthy psychological pathways, will promote resilience & happiness now and as they transition into adulthood.” he says.

The launch of DIGGER the Plushie German Shepherd marks the beginning of a journey filled with compassion and solidarity. ADA and AKKF remain steadfast in their commitment to fostering a brighter future for generations to come.

Australian Defence Apparel (ADA) proudly announces an industry-first collaboration with Indigenous Design Labs (IDL), marking a significant milestone set to champion and showcase Indigenous youth creativity and community engagement.

Chris Dixon, CEO of ADA, emphasised the significance of this collaboration within the Defence and manufacturing sectors, stating, “This pioneering partnership not only represents a groundbreaking endeavour in crafting new apparel, but also underscores ADA and IDL’s commitment to driving positive change and fostering cultural appreciation within Australia’s apparel manufacturing landscape, aligning closely with ADA’s Reconciliation Action Plan. Through innovative design, community engagement, and social responsibility, ADA and IDL are poised to set new standards for inclusive practices.”

Phase one of the collaboration will see IDL creating modern and contemporary print artwork applicable to uniforms , bringing a fresh aesthetic to ADA’s warehousing and manufacturing operational crew .

Phase two of the collaboration will launch an 8-week training program, integrated into a real-world uniform development project, where IDL youth will collaborate with ADA designers to develop a new clothing range from concept to prototype and manufacturing. The launch will coincide with Closing the Gap Day on 21 March 2024, amplifying the initiative’s significance and sparking conversation around social cohesion and economic empowerment.

Leigh Harris, Indigenous business owner of ingeous studios and IDL Founder highlighted, “Indigenous Design Labs consist of a team of young creatives focusing on abstract and contemporary designs that reflect a diverse representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. We view every opportunity as a chance to contribute to and expand upon the ongoing narrative of Indigenous design.”

Sheree Jacobs, IDL Torres Strait Mentor, added, “We are passionate about ensuring equal opportunities for individuals in regional areas. Partnering with a significant organisation such as ADA, not only grants access to urban opportunities but also empowers us to showcase what is possible. This collaboration enables regional youth to access opportunities previously out of reach, breaking down barriers and paving the way for a brighter future.”

Casey Demko, Designer at ADA, who is leading the partnership, shared her insights: “Growing up in rural Victoria, I was really excited about this partnership with IDL. I understand, first-hand, the difficulties faced by young Australians wishing to pursue creative career paths and the lack of industry partnerships available to remote communities, which can be really empowering for young people . This program will be a platform to connect indigenous and non-indigenous communities through clothing and art, representing ADA’s commitment to driving meaningful change and nurture diversity and inclusion amongst the wider community whilst representing ADA’s values and commitment to meaningful change.”

Mel Suares, Lead Design Manager at ADA, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “The ADA and Indigenous Design Labs partnership connects our shared desire to shake up the clothing industry while amplifying the voices of young and diverse Indigenous creators. We are thrilled that these talented designers will be recognised for their exceptional work, which will soon be available for all of our local makers, teams, and broader community. This collaboration represents an exciting new frontier for young artists, opening up conversations that support Indigenous youth and create a world of possibilities for their future.”

Chris Dixon, CEO of ADA, says, “This initiative not only provides valuable paid creative work and mentorship opportunities for young First Nations people but also injects funding into creating real-world opportunities for them to activate their creativity and upskill in the digital and creative design space.”

Sizing collation and fitting for ADA team members are set to occur in mid-May 2024, with final orders set for delivery to ADA HQ by mid-August 2024. The eagerly awaited launch event to celebrate this transformative collaboration will see the Indigenous youth creatives and mentors being flown down to Melbourne from Far North Queensland at the end of August 2024.

Palmerston North’s building its case as our Defence Force capital — along with nearby bases, it now has a new warehouse home to the nation’s military uniforms.

After 31 years in the Air Force, Shar Carson knows all the tips and tricks to putting together a tidy uniform. Now she’s using her experience to help kit out the front lines.

Today, she showed 1News around the new warehouse, storing nearly 300,000 items to support around 12,000 Army, Navy and Air Force personnel.

“Some get eight pairs, some get five. They’re very well catered for, there’s a shoe for every purpose,” quality and compliance manager Carson said.

The new distribution centre is bringing in dozens of extra jobs and mayor Grant Smith said it was a boost for the city.

“It’s pretty huge. Fifty-five jobs but also the multimillion-dollar build and possibly more to come,” Smith said.

Australia Defence Apparel New Zealand chief executive Chris Dixon said “conversations are underway” with emergency services about storing their uniforms at the Palmerston North hub too.

“We won’t be stopping here. We see opportunities in law and healthcare, fire and other first responder sectors in the industry,” Dixon said.

But for former Air Force personnel like Carson, her new job is a chance to continue serving the country.

“The thing is, when you join the military you are in it for life. It’s something about being part of a family and a camaraderie built within that. This job enables me to be connected, and still close to that.”

By: 1news.co.nz