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

Australia Kids Apparel Market Trends

The growth of the Australia kids apparel market is driven by the increasing number of children in Australia, creating a rising demand for children’s clothing. With higher disposable incomes, parents are opting for stylish clothing for their children, alongside a growing preference for comfortable, breathable, and eco-friendly fabrics, including sustainable materials. In January 2025, Australian mother Ashley Anderson launched Sand + Salt Kids, an ethical and sustainable kids' clothing brand, which has already gained recognition by being shortlisted for two categories at the 2024 SHE-com Awards in Eco & Sustainability and Baby & Kids Clothing. The brand focuses on eco-conscious materials and supports mental health initiatives.

The opportunities in the Australia kids apparel market are expanding as e-commerce growth makes it easier for consumers to access a wide range of kids' clothing. There is also increasing demand for locally made Australian-produced apparel. The market is diversifying, offering seasonal, active, and formal wear, with an emphasis on inclusive sizing and health-conscious materials such as cotton and bamboo.

Australia Kids Apparel Market Growth

The demand for the Australia kids apparel market has been strengthened as parents increasingly prioritise durability, seeking long-lasting clothing for their growing children. Technology is playing a more significant role, with virtual try-ons and customisable options becoming popular. Celebrity endorsements are further driving the kids’ fashion market, and there is a growing availability of affordable yet high-quality children’s clothing. Cotton On Kids, a children's clothing brand, launched its first collection of Australian cotton garments both domestically and internationally. In partnership with Cotton Australia, the brand incorporated sustainable Australian-grown cotton into its materials.

The Australia kids apparel market revenue is impacted by seasonal fluctuations in demand, as weather changes affect the types of products offered throughout the year. Global fashion trends are shaping the market, with parents displaying increased brand loyalty. Strict health and safety regulations maintain the quality of children’s clothing, while customised and community-oriented designs are becoming more widespread.

Australia Kids Apparel Market Insights

• According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), there were an estimated 4.8 million children aged 0–14 years in Australia as of June 2023, driving increased demand for kids' apparel. This growing demographic ensures a continued need for a variety of children’s clothing, fuelling market growth and potential.
• In 2023, Australia recorded 286,998 registered births as per Australian Bureau of Statistics, reflecting a healthy birth rate. This influx of new children boosts the demand for kids' clothing, expanding the customer base and prompting ongoing product development to cater to diverse requirements in the apparel market.
• With a fertility rate of 1.50 births per woman in 2023 as per industry reports, Australia’s rate remains below the replacement level but still supports stable demand for children’s clothing. This helps sustain the long-term viability of the kids' apparel market, as the number of young families remains steady.

Australia Kids Apparel Market Drivers

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Materials

The growth of the Australia kids apparel market is driven by a rising demand for sustainable clothing, as more parents opt for eco-friendly alternatives. Brands are turning to organic cotton, bamboo, recycled materials, and environmentally conscious production methods. This trend is fueled by increased environmental awareness and a preference for sustainable products. Moreover, circular fashion models are being embraced, encouraging the recycling and repurposing of old garments. As sustainability becomes a key consumer priority, Australian kids' apparel brands are focused on reducing their environmental impact while offering stylish, eco-conscious clothing. In February 2022, Selma Adeline, a Seychellois living in Perth, launched Belisara Kids, a children’s clothing brand inspired by Seychelles’ vibrant colours, flowers, and greenery. The mother of two, originally from Cascade, designs and sews the clothes herself.

Digital and Online Shopping

The shift towards online shopping is influencing the Australia kids apparel market dynamics and trends. With the growth of digital platforms and e-commerce, more parents are choosing the convenience of browsing, purchasing, and receiving children's clothing at home. Online shopping offers a broader selection of brands, styles, and sizes not always found in local stores. Social media platforms and online influencers significantly influence purchasing choices, with many parents seeking style inspiration from Instagram and Pinterest. This digital trend continues to expand, creating opportunities for brands to connect with a larger audience. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), the e-commerce retail sector contributed 41.5% to the growth in the value added by digital activities in Australia during the 2020-21 period.

Opportunities in the Australia Kids Apparel Market

Athleisure and activewear have become significant trends in the Australian kids apparel market, with clothing increasingly designed for an active lifestyle. Fabrics like moisture-wicking and stretch materials are now common in everyday wear, allowing children to easily move from sports activities to school and casual outings. The growing emphasis on fitness and the rise in sports and outdoor activities have spurred interest in athletic-inspired clothing. Brands are offering versatile apparel that balances performance and style, meeting the demand for durable activewear. According to the Australian Government, approximately 3 million children aged 0-14 participate in organised sports outside of school hours each year.

Market Restraints

The Australia kids apparel market faces several challenges, including rising raw material costs, especially for sustainable fabrics, and intense competition from both local and international brands. Economic uncertainty can reduce spending on non-essential items, while supply chain disruptions affect pricing and inventory. Sustainability challenges, such as sourcing eco-friendly materials affordably, further complicate matters.

Additionally, evolving consumer preferences, regulatory compliance issues, and seasonal demand variations require quick adaptation. Many parents remain price-sensitive, limiting growth in premium segments. These constraints demand that brands navigate a highly competitive environment while balancing cost, quality, and sustainability to remain profitable in the Australia kids apparel market.

Australia Kids Apparel Market Share

Market Analysis by Type

According to the Australia kids apparel market analysis, formal wear leads the sector, driven by demand for special occasions such as weddings, parties, and ceremonies. Parents increasingly seek stylish yet comfortable clothing for their children, prompting the market for high-quality fabrics and tailored designs. The growing preference for versatile, well-crafted formal wear presents opportunities for both luxury and mid-range brands. Juno Kids, a leading children's clothing, and formal wear store in Perth, specialised in high-quality attire, offering an elegant range of Holy Communion dresses that ensured children looked their best on special occasions with comfortable, intricately designed, and perfectly tailored styles.

The growth of the Australia kids apparel market is supported by the rising demand for casual wear, driven by a preference for comfort, ease of movement, and practicality. As children participate in daily activities, parents favour durable, versatile, and low-maintenance clothing. The growing popularity of casualwear, including activewear and athleisure, has increased demand for functional, stylish pieces, contributing to the market's expansion. Target Australia's kids clothing range offers a variety of essentials, including leggings, jeans, tops, t-shirts, and jumpers. Designed for both comfort and style, these versatile, durable options are perfect for play, school, or casual outings, ensuring parents can find affordable, high-quality clothing for children of all ages.

Market Analysis by Gender

According to the Australia kids apparel market report, boys' clothing benefits from high demand for durable, practical, and stylish options. Parents seek versatile clothing suitable for active lifestyles, ranging from casual wear to school uniforms. The market is growing with functional, comfortable garments, including athleisure, outdoor wear, and school essentials. As of June 2024, approximately 2.24 million boys aged 0-14 lived in Australia, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

Girls’ clothing in the Australia kids apparel market benefits from a strong demand for a balance of style and comfort. Parents are looking for versatile, trendy options such as dresses, casual wear, and activewear. The market continues to grow as interest in both fashionable and practical clothing for various occasions, from playtime to school, increases. As of June 2024, approximately 2.12 million girls aged 0-14 lived in Australia, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

Market Analysis by Age Group

The Australia kids apparel market growth is boosted as the demand for infant clothing (<= 1 year) in Australia is consistently high, driven by the country’s strong birth rate. Parents are prioritising comfort, softness, and convenience when choosing clothing for their babies. As infants grow rapidly, frequent purchases are made, with a particular focus on organic fabrics and easy-to-use clothing, making this market segment particularly lucrative.

The demand for the Australia kids apparel market is boosted as the demand for clothing for toddlers and young children (1 to 5 years) is increasing as parents show greater brand loyalty and look for durable, low-maintenance garments. As physical activity levels rise, there is an added need for flexibility and comfort. Additionally, the market is seeing opportunities for creative designs, with fun prints, colours, and themed clothes that appeal to both children and their parents.

The Australia kids apparel market opportunities is driven as the 5 to 10-year-old segment benefits from a combination of style and practicality. As children grow more active, parents look for durable and versatile clothing suitable for school, sports, and outdoor activities. This age group is also driving the rise of athleisure and activewear, with an increasing demand for stylish yet functional clothing, leading to greater interest in multipurpose garments.

The development of the Australia kids apparel market is boosted as children aged 10 to 12 show a growing demand for fashion-forward, age-appropriate styles that reflect their increasing sense of independence. This segment is influenced by social media trends and celebrity endorsements, as children begin to develop their own personal style. The demand for both comfortable and trendy clothing continues to rise, resulting in stronger sales within this age group.

Australia Kids Apparel Market Regional Insights

New South Wales Kids Apparel Market Overview

The New South Wales kids apparel market thrives due to its large population and high disposable income. Parents focus on quality, comfort, and sustainability, which fuels demand for premium, eco-friendly clothing. As of June 2023, approximately 1.5 million children aged 0-14 lived in the state, representing 20% of its total population, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

Queensland Kids Apparel Market Trends

Queensland’s kids apparel market benefits from a growing preference for casual, activewear, and athleisure. The region’s warm climate encourages the use of lightweight, breathable fabrics, while increasing eco-awareness drives demand for sustainable and organic clothing options. In June 2023, Queensland had about 1.2 million children aged 0-14, making up a significant portion of the population, according to the ABS.

Western Australia Kids Apparel Market Dynamics

The Western Australia kids apparel market benefits from an increasing focus on durability and practicality. Parents are opting for versatile clothing suitable for outdoor activities and the region's varied climate, driving demand for functional, high-quality garments. Western Australia is home to approximately 634,000 children and young people, who make up 23% of the state's total population, according to industry reports.

Competitive Landscape

The Australia kids apparel market key players specialise in a broad range of children’s clothing, offering high-quality and comfortable options such as everyday wear, sleepwear, outerwear, accessories, and gifts. These brands focus on providing stylish, durable, and affordable clothing, prioritising both value and sustainability while catering to the demand for fast-fashion and age-appropriate designs, making them reliable choices for parents.

Key Industry Players

Carter’s, Inc.: Carter’s, Inc., established in 1865 and headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, is a leading retailer of children’s apparel in the United States. The company offers a wide range of clothing, gifts, and accessories for babies and young children, known for its high-quality and comfortable products.

The Children’s Place, Inc.: Founded in 1969 and headquartered in Secaucus, New Jersey, The Children’s Place, Inc. is a prominent retailer of children’s clothing, offering a variety of fashion and essentials for children aged newborn to 14 years. The brand is known for affordable, stylish, and durable clothing.

Inditex: Inditex, founded in 1985 and headquartered in Arteijo, Spain, is one of the world’s largest fashion retailers. Known for its brands like Zara, Massimo Dutti, and Pull&Bear, Inditex offers a wide range of stylish, affordable clothing, including children’s apparel, with a focus on fast-fashion and sustainability.

Hennes & Mauritz Retail Pvt. Ltd: Hennes & Mauritz Retail Pvt. Ltd, established in 1947 and headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, is a global leader in fashion retail. The company operates under the H&M brand, offering a wide selection of stylish and affordable clothing for men, women, and children, with an emphasis on sustainability and trend-driven designs.

Other key players in the Australia kids apparel market report are Nike, Inc., Cotton On Group, Mothercare, Gianni Versace S.r.l., Burberry, and Gerber Childrenswear among others.

Recent Development

December 2024

Aussie surf brand Mambo plans to expand its kidswear range by 50% in 2025, following its relaunch in September 2024 through key stockist Big W. The brand's success was driven by a collaboration with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and the nostalgic appeal of designs like the iconic ‘Farting Dog.’

April 202

Sustainable kids' clothing brands in Australia gained traction as parents sought eco-friendly options for their children’s fast-growing wardrobes. With kids outgrowing clothes quickly, these brands aimed to reduce waste by offering durable items designed to last and be passed down, making them a more environmentally conscious choice for families.