Grow. Promote. Protect: Shaping a More Sustainable Australian Furniture Industry
Australia's furniture and furnishing sector is at a critical turning point. With increasing regulatory pressure, growing demand for verified sustainability credentials, and heightened scrutiny of environmental and social claims, businesses across the value chain are being challenged to lift their game and to prove it.
That's why GECA is proud to support the Grow. Promote. Protect. Forum 2026 (GPP 2026), delivered in partnership with the Australian Furniture Association (AFA), the Australian Furnishing Industry Stewardship Council (AFISC) and RMIT University.
Taking place 24–25 February 2026 at RMIT University's Emily McPherson Building in Melbourne, this in‑person forum will bring together leaders from Australia's furniture, forestry, materials and manufacturing sectors to explore how the industry can build resilience, credibility and long‑term growth.
Why GPP 2026 matters
Recent Commonwealth and state‑funded research has highlighted clear priorities for the furnishing industry over the next three to five years - from circular economy readiness and responsible materials sourcing, to supply chain transparency and credible sustainability claims.
GPP 2026 builds on this momentum, creating a practical, solutions‑focused space where industry can:
Grow by understanding emerging policy, procurement and market expectations
Promote verified sustainability leadership with confidence and credibility
Protect businesses and brands from greenwashing risk and reputational harm
For GECA licensees and partners, this aligns strongly with our mission to support better products, services and procurement outcomes through robust, third‑party verification.
What's on the agenda
Across two days, GPP 2026 will feature expert insights, industry case studies and collaborative discussions designed to help organisations move from intent to action.
Highlights include:
Strategic insights from leaders across the furnishing, manufacturing and materials sectors
Practical guidance on sustainability regulation, stewardship and compliance
A focus on future‑proofing products and supply chains through verified environmental and social performance
Attendees can also opt into a separately ticketed Circular Economy Activator: Furniture Industry session, delivered by Circular Australia, ahead of the main program's first day. This session will dive deeper into circular design, materials recovery and industry‑led solutions.
Exclusive discounts for GECA's network
As a valued partner, GECA is pleased to share exclusive, heavily discounted registration options for our licensees and broader network. Available packages include:
Two‑day Forum pass - $295 (normally $695)
Two‑day Forum + networking sessions - $350 (normally $795)
Two‑day Forum + networking + VIP Dinner - $450 (normally $895)
Full package including Circular Australia session - $600 (normally $995)
These discounts offer exceptional value for organisations looking to stay ahead of regulatory change, strengthen sustainability credentials and connect with peers across the sector.
Join the conversation
The Grow. Promote. Protect. Forum 2026 is an important opportunity for furniture and furnishing businesses to come together, share knowledge and shape a more sustainable and credible industry - one grounded in evidence, transparency and continuous improvement.
Register and view the agenda here and be sure to use the exclusive partner access codes when booking.
