Powering Local Design: How Design Show Australia is Championing Homegrown Innovation

Partnership

June 5, 2025

Preview

This year’s edition of Design Show Australia celebrates Australia’s most promising talent with the Australian Made Trail and the annual Next Top Designers competition

This year during Design & Build Week in Melbourne (12-14 June), Design Show Australia — co-located with Kitchen + Bath Show and Archibuild Expo — puts the spotlight firmly on the strength and future of Australian design. Two standout initiatives are leading the charge: the launch of the Australian Made Trail, sponsored by Australian Made, and the return of the influential Australia’s Next Top Designers programme.

As demand grows for sustainable, ethically sourced products and more resilient supply chains, the importance of supporting local manufacturing has never been clearer. The Australian Made Trail, introduced for the first time this year, highlights more than 20 exhibitors officially licensed to display the iconic green and gold kangaroo logo, a trusted mark of authenticity, quality and Australian craft.

Among the featured brands are Polytec (Australian Panels), James Hardie, Southern Cross Ceramics, Schneider Electric and Porter’s Paints, demonstrating the breadth and innovation of Australian-made products across architecture, interiors and construction. The trail invites visitors to explore these contributions first-hand and connect directly with the businesses shaping the future of local industry.

Polytec

With more than 80% of Australian businesses preferring to purchase domestically produced goods, the trail offers more than just product discovery: it’s a celebration of self-reliance and creativity. For designers, retailers, builders and specifiers alike, the initiative is a unique opportunity to engage with makers committed to sustainable, high-quality production.

At the same time, the show continues to champion emerging talent through Australia’s Next Top Designers. The annual competition and showcase provide a national platform for up-and-coming designers to present their ideas and concepts. From innovative materials to forward-thinking product design, the finalists are a glimpse into the next wave of creative leaders. The 2025 shortlist is now live, with the winner set to be announced mid-June.

Together, the Australian Made Trail and Australia’s Next Top Designers reflect the broader mission of Design Show Australia: to support the entire design ecosystem, from established manufacturers to rising stars, and ensure local creativity continues to thrive on a global stage.

Whether you’re looking for fresh ideas, sourcing partners or simply inspired by exceptional design, this year’s show offers a compelling reason to get involved and back Australian made.