In Conversation with Sweaters Australia
This Father’s Day we sat down with Lior, who works alongside his father Ariel at Sweaters Australia. Hear about their rich history of their family business, which has been a staple at Queen Victoria Market for 50 years. He highlights the unique variety of knitwear they offer, including their renowned possum merino sweaters.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and Sweaters Australia?
My name is Lior, and I work at Sweaters Australia alongside my father, Ariel. He founded Sweaters Australia in 1974, and for the past 50 years, he has been selling knitwear as a factory outlet here at Queen Victoria Market. Before joining the family business, I spent 15 years as a stockbroker. However, after my father had an accident and was injured, I stepped in to help and have been working here for the past 10 years.
Working side by side with my father has brought us some of the most memorable and cherished moments. He teaches me a lot, and sometimes, I think I might even teach him a thing or two. It’s a bond that goes beyond work—these shared experiences and the time we spend together are truly irreplaceable.
What makes your sweaters unique compared to others in the market?
What sets us apart is the extensive range of sweaters we offer. Our colourful jumpers, which my father began selling in 1974, became one of the biggest knitwear brands worldwide during the 1990s. Since then, we’ve expanded our collection to include exclusive possum merino knitwear, sourced from New Zealand. Additionally, we offer a range of woolen knits under the Ansett label, which is the oldest knitwear brand in Australia, with a history spanning 86 years. This combination of heritage, exclusivity, and variety makes our sweaters truly unique.
What kind of sweater would you recommend as a gift for Father’s Day, and why?
This Father’s Day, I would recommend our possum merino knitwear. It’s incredibly soft on the skin, luxuriously comfortable, and makes for a truly special gift. It’s a thoughtful way to show your appreciation and give your father something he’ll cherish.
What does Father’s Day mean to you?
As both a son and a father, Father’s Day holds a special place in my heart. I love spoiling my father, but I also cherish being spoiled by my own children. It’s a day filled with love and celebration, and I really enjoy spending it with my family.
What’s your favourite thing about working at the market, especially during special occasions like Father’s Day?
My favourite thing about working at the market around Father’s Day is seeing entire families come together—different generations from grandchildren to children to grandparents. There’s something special about watching them all enjoy themselves and share in the experience. It’s a heartwarming reminder of what the day is all about.
How will you be celebrating Father’s Day this year?
This Father’s Day, I’m hoping to relax at home with my family and maybe even get a little spoiled! But if not, I’ll be celebrating here at Sweaters Australia, possibly working alongside my father. That’s something special and memorable, and it’s certainly not a bad alternative to spending the day at home. If I do end up working, I have a strong feeling my wife will bring our two kids to the market. It would be nice to spend the day surrounded by family, even at work.
How has fatherhood changed or shaped your perspective on life?
My perspective on life changed the moment my first child was born. In that instant, your priorities shift, and your focus becomes entirely about your children. It’s something that’s hard to fully understand until you’ve experienced it yourself.
One of the most important lessons my father taught me is to always be honest. He used to say, “If you don’t do anything wrong, you’ll never have to look over your shoulder when you hear a sound behind you because you won’t be in trouble.” That wisdom has guided me both as a father and in life.
What do you think are some creative or meaningful ways to show appreciation for fathers beyond traditional gifts?
Beyond giving my father a gift like aftershave, a sweater, or something similar, I find it meaningful to write him a heartfelt message in a card. It’s a way to express my gratitude for everything he’s done for me and to let him know how much I love him. I also think giving him a day where he can truly relax and not have to worry about everyone else is a wonderful way to show appreciation. It’s the small gestures that can make a big impact.
Explore Sweaters Australia’s range of knitwear at Queen Victoria Market on Tuesday and Thursday through to Sunday in J Shed, shop 80 – 77. Visit us today!
