First Nations designers recognised at National Indigenous Fashion Awards

By Kaycee Enerva August 6, 2026

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First Nations designers, artists, and creatives have been recognised at this year’s National Indigenous Fashion Awards (NIFA), celebrating excellence in Indigenous fashion, textiles, and adornment.

Presented by Indigenous Fashion Projects as part of Country to Couture, the awards recognise creativity, cultural knowledge, and innovation while supporting sustainable career pathways for First Nations designers and artists.

This year, 25 finalists were honoured across seven categories, with winners receiving a mix of industry mentorship, professional development, financial support, and strategic partnerships to help grow their businesses.

Indigenous Fashion Projects manager Michelle Maynard said the awards continue to provide an important platform for recognising and elevating First Nations talent.

“Each of these designers represents thousands of hours, years, and lifetimes dedicated to mastering their craft,” Maynard said.

“They keep intergenerational knowledge and cultural practices alive, and we are proud to showcase their incredible skill and enduring cultural connection.”

Among the winners, Delvene Cockatoo-Collins received the Fashion Designer Award, which includes a tailored 12-month mentorship with Country Road to support the next stage of her business.

Country Road’s Lisa Friedl, a NIFA judge, described Cockatoo-Collins as “a talented contemporary curator of craft, provenance and storytelling”.

“Delvene’s work channels culture and story through a timeless yet relevant fashion lens. Her collection is beautifully balanced, with a restrained yet effective use of design elements,” Friedl said.

Other award partners included Desart, Franchesca Cubillo, RMIT, QIC, Pacific Werribee, and Canberra Centre.

National Indigenous Fashion Award Winners for 2026:

Textile Design Award (supported by RMIT): Lillardia Briggs-Houston (Wiradjuri, Yorta Yorta and Gangalu, North Albury, NSW) was recognised for her hand-dyed silk organza, celebrating excellence in contemporary Indigenous textile design.
Traditional Adornment Award (supported by Desart): Michelle Pulatuwayu Woody Minnapinni (Tiwi, Wulirankuwu, Milikapiti, Tiwi Islands, NT; Jilamara Arts and Crafts Association) won for her tunga (bark basket) and parmijini (headband/armbands), recognising excellence in traditional cultural regalia.
Wearable Art Award (supported by Pacific Werribee): Lucy Simpson (Yuwaalaraay, Gadigal/Wangal Country, Tempe, NSW; Gaawaa Miyay Designs) was honoured for her glass river mussel shell necklace, recognised for its design, craftsmanship, and cultural expression.
Fashion Designer Award (supported by Country Road): Delvene Cockatoo-Collins (Nunukul, Ngugi and Goenpul, Goompi/Dunwich, Quandamooka Country, Queensland) was recognised for excellence in original fashion design, combining creative and commercial success.
Cecilia Cubillo Young Achiever Award: Jake Powers (Yawuru, Bardi and Kija, Walmanyjun/Cable Beach, Broome, WA) was recognised as an outstanding emerging First Nations creative making a significant contribution to the fashion industry and his community.
Community Collaboration Award (supported by QIC): Bábbarra Women’s Centre × Tharangini Studio (Kunibidji, Kuninjku, Kune, Gurr-goni and Burrara, Maningrida, NT) won for their partnership, which delivers social and economic benefits while placing First Nations leadership at the centre of the collaboration.
Business Achievement Award (supported by Canberra Centre): KAFTA (Kimberley Aboriginal Fashion Textiles Art) (Kimberley Region, Rubibi/Broome, WA) was recognised for its leadership, creative excellence, and commercial success in advancing the Indigenous fashion and textiles sector.