In late 2025 a report was released by the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forests under freedom of information for verification of origin testing under the Illegal Logging Prohibition Act.
This report identified some significant discrepancies in some supply chains, and discrepancies for some products where claims of sustainable origin had been made. Responsible Wood, in conjunction with PEFC International, has reviewed the findings of the market surveillance testing.
Key points to note:
- All Australian grown and made, solid wood products were verified as correctly described. This reflects the strength of domestic forest management, certification and traceability systems operating within established regulatory frameworks in Australia.
Responsible Wood certifies over 90% of Australia’s commercial production forestry under the PEFC-endorsed forest management and chain of custody Standards, operating within Australia’s established regulatory framework
- Equally, none of the imported solid wood products identified as inconsistent were PEFC certified, reflecting the reality that PEFC has limited exposure to most high-risk supply chains. Responsible Wood and PEFC International are acutely aware that this testing does identify potential misrepresentation of certified products and so are taking the opportunity to review and further strengthen due diligence and supply chain integrity with new integrity measures under development.
Since becoming aware of the report, Responsible Wood have focused on gathering the facts and engaging with Australian supply chains and companies importing timber to further support and strengthen their due diligence processes.
Over the coming months, Responsible Wood will deliver additional face-to-face and online due diligence training and direct support to chain of custody certified organisations to reinforce risk assessment practices and strengthen supply chain integrity. This reflects our ongoing commitment to helping certification holders meet their obligations and ensuring the certification system continues to operate with integrity and credibility.
Responsible Wood remains committed to credible certification and supporting compliance with Australia’s illegal logging laws.
