A formal complaint has been submitted to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) alleging that the organiser of the Australian International Furniture Fair (AIFF) and Green Design Show, Informa, may have misrepresented certain sustainability credentials associated with the event.
The two shows, held in Melbourne in July, were marketed as purpose-led events that would ‘celebrate truly sustainable furniture, products and materials’, curated under a clear set of ‘sustainability guidelines’.
However, some attendees reported that a significant proportion of products on display appeared not to meet commonly accepted environmental criteria. Additionally, concerns were raised that certain exhibitors were offering mass-produced or imported goods without clear sustainability credentials, which may have contradicted the event’s stated purpose.
The submission of the complaint to the ACCC raises broader questions about the use of sustainability messaging in trade events and highlights the need for clearer oversight and transparency in the industry.
The complaint also highlights what is seen as a broader issue within the trade and events industry: the use of sustainability-related language and imagery in marketing materials that may not always reflect actual environmental performance. Under Australian Consumer Law, any misleading or deceptive conduct—including unsubstantiated environmental claims—is prohibited.
The ACCC has named greenwashing one of its main priorities for 2025–26, warning businesses and event organisers that they must provide clear, accurate and evidence-based sustainability messaging.
Main image: AIFF
