Why buying aged care furniture based on price alone is a mistake!

When sourcing furniture for an aged care facility refurbishment, you may be considering whether or not to go with an Australian furniture manufacturer. You probably have a few requirements in mind like ‘furniture should look good, be easy to clean, durable and safe’, but high on your list is probably also price.

Be careful! If you choose to NOT buy Australian made furniture and focus too much on the low prices being offered overseas, you may be making a big mistake that could result in a lot of heartache for you, the aged care facility residents, staff and management.

You may end up with furniture not being made to high Australian standards, cheap and nasty upholstery, furniture not designed to suit the aged care environment or worse yet, poorly made furniture that is faulty and dangerous, with no opportunity for recourse.

Refurbishing an aged care facility is such a big investment that getting it right the first time is crucial. After all, you don’t want to be replacing furniture a year after the fit-out because you chose to use lower priced, lower quality, imported furniture that wasn’t fit for purpose.

Read on for 5 reasons why you should always buy Australian made…

1. Made to Australian standards, warranties and guarantees.

Aged care facilities opting for Australian-made furniture benefit from dual layers of protection not provided by overseas manufacturers.

Firstly, Australian manufacturers adhere to some of the world’s highest manufacturing quality standards. By law, Australian businesses must meet stringent requirements outlined in the Aged Care Quality Standards, ensuring strict compliance with business, safety, and quality control standards. The materials used in Australian-made furniture undergo close monitoring by regulatory bodies, guaranteeing that these products are of high quality and designed for longevity.

Secondly, consumers of Australian-made furniture are safeguarded by the Australian Consumer Law, which grants the right to seek a repair, replacement, or refund if a product or service fails to meet consumer guarantees. Moreover, many Australian furniture manufacturers go above and beyond by offering additional warranties and guarantees. Some provide extended 10-year structural warranties, fixed price contracts, and assurances of timely and defect-free delivery for furniture projects.

2. Furniture made in Australia can be custom designed and built to the needs of the aged care community.

Numerous companies provide customized furniture services, but for a successful aged care refurbishment project, it’s crucial to engage a furniture manufacturer well-versed in the specific needs of the aged care population. This manufacturer should specialize in both designing and producing furniture tailored for use in aged care facilities.

A reputable Australian furniture manufacturer initiates the process with a comprehensive understanding of the intended furniture environment, coupled with specific industry expertise. Recognizing the unique requirements of each client, the initial consultation with your chosen furniture manufacturer is dedicated to discussing and addressing these specific needs.

Your Australian furniture manufacturer should also be looking for a balance of function, aesthetics and budgetary constraints:

• Function: Elderly people living in aged care facilities have specific physical needs that, when met, can have a significant impact on their emotional wellbeing.
• Aesthetics: Aged care furniture should look good, be easily understood and create a warm, non-clinical and residential feel.
• Budget: In the early stages of your refurbishment project, your furniture manufacturer should have a frank conversation with you about what is achievable within your budget, while also providing a fixed price quote.

3. Dependable service from an Australian furniture manufacturer who is accountable to you and easily contactable.

The aged care refurbishment process is a huge undertaking. The pressure is on to make sure all stakeholders are happy including facility management, staff, residents and their family and friends. You want an Australian furniture manufacturer who understands the needs of the age care sector and offers end-to-end furniture solutions, working with you every step of the way – from project initiation to quality-controlled design and manufacturing, right through to after-sales service.

In other words, you want one Australian-based company completely focused and accountable for delivering your refurbishment. This means that you are likely to get a better quality product and any issues that arise can be resolved by making a phone call to your Australian-based furniture solutions partner.

This translates into happier residents, staff and management because you have delivered safe, functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces that people want to live and work in.

4. Aussie made furniture means more jobs for Australian families.

Buying Australian made furniture supports local industries and jobs, boosting the Australian economy and keeping profits in Australia. Also, Australian furniture manufacturers and their employees pay tax to the Australian Government and this means there is more money to spend on things like hospitals, sporting facilities and schools. According to labour force statistics released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics in 2020, manufacturing contributes about six percent of Australia’s GDP and supports 862,200 jobs. By choosing to buy Australian made for your aged care refurbishment, you are giving back to the community and supporting the jobs of families across Australia.

But it’s more than just about keeping jobs in Australia. It’s also about how we treat our workers. Australia has some of the strictest workplace health and safety standards in the world, enforced by regulation. When you don’t buy Australian made, you can never be sure that workers are being treated fairly, paid properly or that they are working in safe conditions.

5. Better for the environment.

Transporting products from overseas contributes to a significantly bigger carbon footprint. By choosing Australian made furniture, you are helping to reduce energy consumption, which in turn reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Australian businesses also operate under some of the strictest environmental policies in the world, which means that our manufacturing processes are more mindful of the environment.

Better outcomes for all Australians

When all is said and done, choosing new furniture for an aged care facility is about creating livable spaces that residents want to live in and workable spaces that staff want to work in. Astute aged care facilities who choose to buy Australian made furniture from an Australian furniture manufacturer know that they will have quality furniture delivered that is made to Australian standards, custom designed to the needs of the aged care community and that they have supported the jobs of Australian families.

FAQs About Australian Made Furniture

Why should I consider purchasing Australian-made furniture?

Choosing Australian-made furniture supports local businesses and ensures that the products meet high-quality standards. It also reduces the environmental impact associated with long-distance shipping.

How can I identify Australian-made furniture?

Look for labels or certifications such as the Australian Made logo. Manufacturers often display these indicators on their products, confirming that the furniture is produced in Australia. Alternatively, chat to the furniture manufacturer. Better yet, visit them to see them making the furniture.

Are there specific regulations or standards for Australian-made furniture?

Yes, Australian-made furniture is often subject to industry standards and regulations. These may include quality and safety standards to ensure that the products meet the necessary requirements.

Is Australian-made furniture more expensive than imported alternatives?

While Australian-made furniture may have a higher upfront cost, it often reflects superior quality and durability. Additionally, local production supports the Australian economy and may contribute to the longevity of the furniture.

Are there customization options available for Australian-made furniture?

Many Australian furniture manufacturers offer customization options to meet individual preferences. This may include choosing materials, finishes, and dimensions tailored to your specific needs.

How does purchasing Australian-made furniture contribute to sustainability?

Choosing Australian-made furniture supports sustainable practices by reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance shipping. Local manufacturers may also prioritize environmentally friendly materials and production processes.

Can I expect a higher level of craftsmanship in Australian-made furniture?

Yes, Australian-made furniture often reflects a higher level of craftsmanship. Local manufacturers take pride in their work, focusing on quality and attention to detail, resulting in furniture that is well-made and designed to last.

Are there government initiatives supporting the Australian-made furniture industry?

Yes, the Australian government has initiatives to support local manufacturing, including the Australian Made Campaign. This initiative promotes products made in Australia and helps consumers identify and choose locally produced goods.

How can I find reputable Australian furniture manufacturers?

Research reputable manufacturers through online reviews, industry associations, and recommendations. Look for companies with positive customer feedback and those affiliated with organizations such as the Australian Furniture Association.

Are there advantages to buying Australian-made outdoor furniture?

Yes, Australian-made outdoor furniture is often designed to withstand local climate conditions. Manufacturers may use materials and finishes suitable for Australian weather, contributing to the longevity and durability of the furniture in outdoor settings.