Standards Archives - Consumers' Federation of Australia

16 October , 2026

Open for Public Comment: Revised Home Composting Standard

Composting is the natural recycling of organic waste, while it’s a seemingly simple concept, the world of composting can be full of confusion. People often use the terms ‘biodegradable’ and ‘compostable’ interchangeably – although they’re not the same thing, find out more in Composting for Beginners. In Australia, products claiming to be home compostable must be…

14 October , 2026

World Standards Day 14 October 2026 – Affordable and clean energy (SDG7)

World Standards Day highlights how standards support UN Sustainable Development Goals , and this year the focus is on Goal 7 | Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. From energy safety and reliability to digital services and payments, standards help keep communities connected and support a more sustainable future. Behind…

1 October , 2026

Paintable electronic tattoos – is that a medical device?

Medical devices can be used to diagnose, prevent, treat, and monitor medical conditions. They include things like implants, software, surgical equipment, pacemakers, baby incubators, and other items. Conventional electrodes that collect electrical signals from the human body for wearable health monitors and human-machine interfaces struggle to remain adhered to hairy and sweaty skin during exercise and the…

16 September , 2026

Sunscreen Products – Draft standard open for Public Comment

We can be sunburnt from direct sunlight, as well as in the shade from reflected radiation from snow, sand, water, clouds, and the sky itself. Often referred to as our ‘national cancer,’ Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Each year, more than 2000 Australians die from this almost entirely preventable…

6 August , 2026

Quantum Technology in Action

New CSIRO project Quantum timing technology has developed two portable quantum-enabled timing devices that have potential benefits for consumer infrastructure including communications networks, transport systems, power grids, and financial services. Designed to help maintain secure timing for critical systems when Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals, including GPS, are disrupted. CSIRO said the project also contributes to Australia’s autonomous capability…

19 June , 2026

Menstrual Hygiene – Safe consumer access

Menstrual health hygiene includes the practices, facilities, and education to manage menstruation safely, privately, and with dignity. It encompasses proper body care, access to safe and affordable products, and the sanitation services required to manage the menstrual cycle comfortably. Menstruation (also called a “period”) is a normal biological process experienced by millions around the world…

18 June , 2026

Plastic Free July

Plastic Free July is an opportunity to pause, rethink everyday habits and get started with simple steps to reduce reliance on single use plastics. As global plastic production has increased dramatically since the mid-20th century, so too have the life cycle emissions of plastics. Climate change is actively reshaping how plastics behave in the environment, making them more mobile, persistent…

4 May , 2026

Have Your Say – Lighting for roads and public spaces

Road and public space lighting schemes’ primary aim is the safe movement of people whether in motorised vehicles or as pedestrians. Lighting is critical to creating a public area that is safe and inviting for users and appropriate lighting can provide significant community benefits. Standards Australia has released a draft standard DR AS/NZS 1158.1.1:2026 Lighting for roads and…

8 April , 2026

Food Loss and Waste

In Australia alone, more than seven million tonnes of food is wasted each year—a third of all food produced. Through Food Systems Horizons, The University of Queensland and CSIRO are using science to help Australians understand the food system, their roles in it, and who they need to work with to develop a more sustainable,…

25 February , 2026

Have Your Say: Trampoline Parks

Trampoline parks are designed for a wide range of ages, from young children to adults, and are popular for fun, fitness and events designed to cater for a variety of skills. The trampolines in trampoline parks differ from domestic trampolines used in backyards across the country, both in design and patterns of use. Trampoline parks…

5 February , 2026

New Standards Reduce Risk of Infant Death and Injury

Two new mandatory standards which aim to reduce risk of death and injury from products that babies do or may fall asleep in must be complied with by businesses from 19 January 2026. Infant sleep products have a surface for an infant to lie on. They are designed or marketed for an infant to sleep…

28 January , 2026

What’s happening with quantum technology?

Quantum technology is already making waves in computing, communications, and sensing. Last year (2025) was proclaimed by the UN as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (see highlights and video), now’s the time to understand what’s coming, and find out more in Standards Australia’s Quantum technologies fact sheet Imagine solving complex problems that would take today’s supercomputers…