The Australian furniture industry is at a critical turning point. Governments and the community are driving the demand for greater sustainability, circularity, and responsible sourcing. As this demand grows, it has become clear that a unified, industry-wide approach is needed to make it happen.
[theafa.asn.au]The Australian Furniture Association is proud to announce the official launch of the Australian Furnishing Industry Stewardship Council (AFISC), a dedicated organisation designed to lead the industry toward a circular economy while ensuring compliance, innovation, and long-term resilience.
Why AFISC?
For years, the industry has grappled with waste management, hazardous chemicals, supply chain transparency, and compliance challenges. While various voluntary standards and government initiatives have attempted to address these issues, there has never been a single authoritative body guiding the entire industry toward a fully circular and sustainable model.
AFISC is that missing link. It brings together manufacturers, designers, suppliers, retailers, policymakers, and consumers to create a transparent, accountable, and forward-thinking furnishing industry.
Our Mission
AFISC was founded to lead the transition toward a circular furnishing industry by:
✅ Supporting SMEs and industry growth through education, training, and clear pathways to circular design and sustainable practices.
✅ Guiding businesses on chemicals of concern, ensuring that furniture products align with health and environmental safety regulations.
✅ Developing the Furniture Passport Australia System (FPAS)—a digital product passport that enables traceability and transparency in the supply chain.
✅ Influencing policy and securing funding to drive research, innovation, and the adoption of sustainable materials.
✅ Providing guidance for accreditation and certification pathways that support compliance with internationally recognised sustainability standards through partnerships with relevant bodies.
Key Initiatives at Launch
- Furniture Passport Australia System (FPAS)
Mandatory environmental and sustainability reporting by the federal government of all furniture procurement has sparked this groundbreaking initiative. FPAS will provide a digital product record that tracks material origins, sustainability certifications, environmental impact, first and end-of-life options (repurpose, repair, reuse, or recycling). This enhances product traceability and ensures compliance with circular economy principles. Suppliers and Procurers will be able to report efficiently to meet the requirements.
- Chemicals of Concern Guidance
Continuing the work of the Australian Furniture Association (AFA), AFISC is addressing hazardous chemicals in furniture production, ensuring that manufacturers know how to meet both national and international regulatory expectations.
- Business Sustainability Checklist
AFISC offers a sustainability checklist to support businesses in waste reduction, extended product lifecycles, and compliance with the National Waste Policy and Environmentally Sustainable Procurement (ESP) guidelines. Viewed as a value add to the supply and distribution of fit for purpose, durable and compliant products by trusted industry leaders.
What This Means for the Industry
The launch of AFISC is a significant milestone for the Australian furnishing sector. By establishing a coordinated approach to sustainability, compliance, and stewardship, AFISC creates a foundation for greater industry integrity, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced consumer trust.
For manufacturers and retailers, this means clearer leadership in compliance pathways, access to sustainability expertise, and stronger industry credibility.
For consumers, it means better choices and greater confidence in the furniture they purchase.
Join Us in Shaping the Future
The success of AFISC depends on industry collaboration. Industry’s success is dependent on belonging to the AFISC eco-system. We invite manufacturers, designers, suppliers, retailers, policymakers, and consumers to be part of this movement—whether through membership, partnership, or advocacy.
Together, we can build a more sustainable, circular, and responsible furniture industry—one that not only meets but exceeds today’s expectations to secure the future of the Australian furnishing industry for generations to come.
Want to Learn More?
Stay updated on AFISC’s initiatives and how you can get involved by visiting AFISC Website or contacting us at care@afisc.com.au. Check before you buy – Visit theafa.asn.au Member Directory NOW for bone-fide suppliers of Furniture.