Our Story, Our Legacy
Est.2019
Our Story, Our Legacy
Est.2019
Malla Clothing Indigenous Apparel was founded in 2019 by Jordan Oliver, a proud Kukuyalanji man from Far North Queensland.
Inspired by the visionary artwork of his father, the internationally renowned Indigenous artist, Dale Oliver, Malla Clothing was created out of a deep passion to preserve, honor, and share Aboriginal culture through the powerful and dynamic medium of wearable art.
At Malla Clothing, we are much more than a fashion brand—we are storytellers.
Every design we craft is a living, breathing representation of the rich traditions and values of the Aboriginal people.
Our pieces celebrate the profound connection to land, sea, water, and earth, a bond that defines the cultural spirit of Far North Queensland.
Each creation is rooted in vibrant stories drawn from the natural landscapes and animals of the region, brought to life through the intricate, powerful artistry of Dale Oliver.
From the majestic sea creatures to the revered land animals, every design is a chapter of a timeless story that spans generations.
Our products transcend the concept of clothing—they are a canvas for cultural expression. The artworks featured in each garment are designed to honor our heritage, while sharing the rich stories of our ancestors with the world.
Whether it’s a shirt, jacket, or accessory, each item is an authentic piece of art, designed not only to be worn but to connect the wearer to a deeper, more meaningful cultural journey.
As an Aboriginal-owned and operated business, Malla Clothing proudly stands as a bridge between generations, offering a high-quality product that reflects the spirit and strength of the land and its people.
Based in Cairns, Queensland, we are committed to ensuring that the stories of our people continue to be told, celebrated, and respected—not just through art but through wearable expressions of culture that allow others to carry a piece of our heritage with them.
Our promise is simple: to deliver high quality, meaningful creations that reflect the enduring power of Aboriginal culture.
Each garment we produce serves as a bridge between the past and present, a testament to the strength of our ancestors, and an invitation to embrace the beauty of storytelling through wearable art.
We invite you to wear our creations with pride, knowing that each piece reflects the history, values, and culture that define Malla Clothing.
Together, we are keeping the stories alive one piece of wearable art at a time. Join us in preserving and celebrating the cultural legacy of Far North Queensland with every garment you wear.
The venture is proudly driven by a father-and-son team:
Dale serves as the artistic mentor, advisor, and creative overseer for Malla Clothing, bringing his professional expertise and industry knowledge to the brand.
Together, Jordan and Dale create designs that embody pride, tradition, and trust, resonating with multiple generations and celebrating their shared cultural heritage.
Explore our designs at: www.mallaclothing.com
Firm copied Aboriginal artworks
Dale Oliver 'Malla' won his copyright court case against Bulurru in 2000 after an 8-year court battle.
Malla has not given out a commercial leasing license in over 20 years until now, which was granted to his son Jordan Oliver (founder), who founded and funded his own Indigenous Apparel range to create – Malla Clothing - Indigenous Apparel
Est. 2019.
Malla, which means hand, is a descendant of the Kukuyalanji clan of Far North Queensland; his given European name was Bob Oliver. Malla was stolen by the State Police and taken from his family in the Daintree reserve when he was just 10 years of age. During this time, Australia-wide, half-cast Aboriginal children were taken away from their families and placed on missions around Australia – this was the Stolen Generation.
Malla was placed in a dormitory at a Far North Queensland mission (Yarrabah) and this is where he grew up. He later married Janie Maytown in Yarrabah and eventually gained his freedom by requesting documental permission from the State government to work and raise his family as a free man. Today, many Aboriginal people are still searching for their family connections.