Malla Clothing Indigenous Apparel PTY LTD has recently established, a start-up business in 2019 that creates original works of high-quality art based upon Aboriginal culture, that combine visual art with storytelling. The artworks are then transformed into wearable art products. Malla is an Aboriginal-owned and operated venture in Cairns, driven by father and son.

Malla is an internationally renowned artist and has exhibited his works internationally and across Australia. During an artistic career spanning over 30 years, his most memorable commissions were to Canadian singer John Denver and Walt Disney’s CEO Michael Eisner. Dale (Malla) brings not only his expertise as a professional artist to the business but also his extensive industry knowledge and key involvement as overseer, advisor, and mentor to Malla clothing. 

The unique designs created by Malla are a culture shared with a spirit of pride, tradition, and trust with appeal across multiple generations of potential buyers and admirers.  

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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; to his son Jordan Oliver (founder) who founded and funded his own Indigenous Apparel range to create – Malla Clothing - Indigenous Apparel PTY LTD

Est.2019

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Six Generations of Malla Oliver - Kuku Yalanji Clan

Who Is Our Mob?

Kuku Yalanji

Malla which means hand is a descendant of the Kukuyalanji clan of Far North Queensland: his given name 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.