Furniture suppliers in Australia must comply with new regulations requiring clear safety warnings about the risk of toppling furniture, effective May 4, 2025.
The mandatory information standard, introduced following a recommendation by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), aims to help reduce injuries and deaths caused by unstable furniture tipping over.
The dangers of toppling furniture have long been a concern. Since the year 2000, at least 28 people—including 17 children under the age of five—have died in Australia due to incidents involving furniture or television tip-overs. More than 900 Australians suffer related injuries annually, with toddlers and older Australians among the most vulnerable.
“A mandatory information standard is a critical step towards reducing the injuries and deaths involving toppling furniture,” said ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe.
“The impact of furniture tip-over can be tragic, with young children and the elderly most at risk. The information standard raises awareness about the risk of furniture tip-over and empowers consumers with the knowledge they need to safeguard their homes.”
The regulation applies to various household items, including chests of drawers, wardrobes, bookcases, hall tables, display cabinets, buffets and sideboards that are 686mm or taller, as well as entertainment units of any height.
These pieces are particularly dangerous when not secured, as children may attempt to climb on them or pull themselves up, while elderly individuals might rely on them for support.
Under the new rules, suppliers are required to permanently affix warning labels to the furniture, provide visible safety warnings both in-store and online, and include anchoring advice in instruction manuals and assembly guides.