The New Furniture Laws Every Designer Should Know
- Andrew Mitchell
- Jun 25, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 24, 2025
Beyond Aesthetics: New Laws That May Impact You
An Article Written for TDC by Sharon Givoni
Picture this: you've perfectly styled a bright, open-plan living space, complete with that stunning custom oak bookcase that instantly elevates the room. Every detail is on point until the unthinkable happens; that bookcase tips over, putting someone at risk. It's not a hypothetical; it's exactly why Australia's new Toppling Furniture Standards have come into effect.
Understanding the New Standards
Since 4 May 2025, the Consumer Goods (Toppling Furniture) Information Standard 2024 has been in force. This law responds to real risks: children climbing, curious pets investigating, or products placed unevenly.
Although the law targets manufacturers and suppliers, interior designers are right in the middle of compliance. You specify, install, or oversee furniture in client homes. Therefore, understanding these new standards is crucial for your practice.
Under this new standard, certain free-standing furniture—like wardrobes, bookcases, entertainment units, and buffets—must now carry permanent safety labels. They also require clear instructions about anchoring to walls and written information at the point of sale, whether in stores or online. The focus is very much on awareness and prevention, with the idea that anchoring measures could save lives.
The Role of Interior Designers
As an interior designer, you now must think about furniture safety as well as style. A client’s beautiful collection is only as safe as the furniture is secure. You might think, “What a thrill it is to get that vintage freestanding dresser.” But it also needs to meet the compliance standard; it’s not a risk you want on your hands.
Most tall or heavy pieces must have the correct safety label and anchoring instructions. The standard expects suppliers to warn consumers, but sometimes it ends up being interior designers who unpack that safety with clients. Explaining why anchoring matters and how it protects kids or elderly residents is now an essential part of every client brief.
With the law behind it, project completion now includes turning over a small compliance package: product warning photos, anchoring instructions, and labels. A simple installer sign-off with “Yes, this furniture is anchored per standard” keeps things clear, clean, and safe.
Updating Your Agreements
Your agreements with cabinet makers, upholsterers, and installers must clearly state: “Anchoring hardware is included and fitted as per the toppling furniture standard.” This should be coupled with an indemnity clause and provision for evidence, such as photos, labels, and manuals. That way, if someone fails to do the job properly, your liability stays protected.
In light of all this, you might want to include an extra compliance step in your handover. Something as simple as noting that safety measures have been followed, with the right checks and instructions shared, can make a significant difference.
If you’re working with cabinet makers, upholsterers, or installers, it may be time to revisit your agreements. Don’t write this off as minor red tape. The ACCC can issue fines up to $50 million or up to 30% of turnover, plus recalls or even corporate disqualification. For a designer, reputational damage could be far more serious than a big fine.
Implementing Safety Checks
Given these new standards, you might want to include a safety-check step in your project handover pack. A note that all relevant furniture has been reviewed and necessary precautions shared can reassure both you and your clients that safety wasn't an afterthought.
Equally, your agreements with cabinet makers, upholsterers, installers, or any supplier need to address compliance with these new standards. The exact wording is best provided by a legal professional, but having clear language about responsibility can protect you—especially if a contractor forgets to anchor or skips a step.
Conclusion
Navigating the new Toppling Furniture Standards may seem daunting, but it’s an opportunity to enhance your practice. By prioritizing safety alongside aesthetics, you not only protect your clients but also elevate your professional reputation.
Remember, the phrase "safety first" is not just a saying; it’s a commitment to your clients and their well-being. Embrace these changes, and let them guide your design choices moving forward.
JUNE EOFY SALE OFFER
For a limited time, TDC and Sharon Givoni are offering a 20% discount off our TDC Contract Set, which will include new terms relating to the Toppling Furniture Laws covered in this article.
Until 30th June, you can purchase the Contract Set, including the Comprehensive Contract and the Abridged Contract, for $1,792 (inc GST).
Article written by Sharon Givoni
Principal, Sharon Givoni Consulting
Disclaimer:
This content provides general information only, not legal advice. To address your specific needs, consult a qualified legal advisor.
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