The Australian furniture industry is at a crossroads with the impending expansion of the Environmentally Sustainable Procurement (ESP) Policy by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water (DCCEEW). From 1 July 2025, this policy will expand its scope to include furniture, fittings, equipment, and textiles procured at or above $1 million, mandating reporting on sustainability credentials. This significant change supports Target 4 of the National Waste Policy Action Plan and aligns with the Government’s Net Zero in Government Operations Strategy, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2030.

PFAS Chemicals: A Growing Threat

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are among the nine Chemicals of Concern identified in a 2022 government-funded study by the Australian Furniture Association (AFA). These substances, commonly found in water repellents, fire retardants, coatings, and foams, present serious risks to human health and the environment.

The environmental repercussions are stark. Furniture waste containing PFAS often ends up in landfills, exacerbating contamination risks highlighted by the National PFAS Investigation and Management Program. Without clear supply chain transparency, identifying sustainable and safe products becomes increasingly challenging, risking another large-scale contamination crisis.

Challenges in Policy Implementation

While the new ESP Policy underscores the importance of sustainability it is just a start, and presents a host of challenges for Australian Government buyers:

Lack of Tracking Mechanisms: The absence of robust systems to trace materials throughout a product’s lifecycle impedes compliance efforts.

Barriers to Domestic Procurement: Without transparency, sourcing compliant products becomes a daunting task.

Global Trade Limitations: Inadequate adherence to sustainability standards may exclude Australian furniture from international procurement opportunities, stifling exports.

Failing to act risks perpetuating environmental harm, such as the leaching of PFAS into drinking water, and undermines the nation’s ability to meet global sustainability goals.

The Path Forward

Join the Movement: Whether you’re part of the government, industry, or an advocate for sustainability, your action matters. Support initiatives like the Furniture Passport Australia System (FPAS) to drive meaningful change and create a greener future for all.

Let us act decisively to turn this challenge into an opportunity for leadership in sustainability. For more information, contact us at hq@afisc.com.au.