Recent observations have revealed a growing number of cases where certifications have either expired or, in some instances, raised questions about their legitimacy. At the Australian Furniture Association (AFA) and the Australian Furnishing Industry Stewardship Council (AFISC)  we believe this highlights the critical responsibility of manufacturers and suppliers to ensure the credibility of the certifications they rely on.

The Australian Furniture Association (AFA) and the Australian Furnishing Industry Stewardship Council (AFISC) has encountered examples of certificates initially assumed to be valid but later found to have expired or fall outside their intended scope. Such instances present significant reputational risks and underscore the importance of accountability and rigorous due diligence within supply chains. Then there is the issue of forged certification, which occurs more frequently than not.

Certification: The Cornerstone of Trust and Compliance

Certifications validate compliance with essential standards, whether for sustainability, quality, or safety. They form the foundation of trust between businesses, customers, and stakeholders. However, the prevalence of expired or invalid certifications presents substantial risks:

  • Eroded Trust: Relying on outdated or invalid certifications undermines confidence between businesses, suppliers, and their customers.
  • Regulatory Consequences: Non-compliance with procurement rules or certification standards can result in reputational damage and financial penalties.
  • Operational Risk: Faulty or uncertified materials compromise product integrity, leading to costly recalls, rework, or safety concerns.

The Manufacturer’s Responsibility

Manufacturers and suppliers must take proactive steps to ensure the legitimacy and currency of the certifications they use. Due diligence in this area is non-negotiable. Key actions include:

  1. Direct Verification: Always confirm certifications directly with the issuing body. Many certification organisations provide online verification tools.
  2. Request Updated Documentation: Monitor expiry dates and ensure suppliers provide certificates with clear details on the scope of certification to confirm relevance.
  3. Establish Regular Checks: Implement periodic reviews of certifications, especially with long-term supplier relationships.
  4. Educate Teams: Train procurement teams to recognise valid certifications and understand the risks of relying on outdated or unverifiable documentation.

Furniture Passport Australia System (FPAS): A Solution for Trust and Transparency

The Furniture Passport Australia System (FPAS) is poised to address these challenges by enhancing accountability and transparency in the furniture industry. This innovative platform will offer:

  • Central Certification Repository: A secure database for storing supplier certifications, enabling easy access and verification.
  • Real-Time Updates: Automated alerts for certifications nearing expiration to help stakeholders maintain compliance.
  • Improved Traceability: Linking certifications directly to products for greater transparency and a more traceable supply chain.

Upholding Standards in an Evolving Landscape

The increasing prevalence of expired or invalid certifications is a call to action for the entire supply chain. Manufacturers must adopt a proactive approach to verifying certifications, ensuring they uphold the standards that customers and partners expect.

The Furniture Passport Australia System will play a pivotal role in mitigating these risks. By centralising certification data and enhancing supply chain visibility, this platform empowers stakeholders to operate with confidence and integrity.

In an industry where trust and compliance are paramount, diligence is not just advisable—it is essential. Certifications should represent more than a document; they must embody a true testament to quality, sustainability, compliance, and accountability.

To learn more about when and how the FPAS System will be introduced, contact care@afisc.com.au. 

Click here, If you or someone you know wants more information or advice, don’t hesitate to contact Archer Thompson.

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.