Certification Made for Australia
The Australian Wool Sustainability Scheme (AWSS) is an independently verified, farm-to-processor certification created to meet the fast-evolving global demand for sustainable, traceable wool.
Around the world, regulators, brands, retailers, and consumers are setting clear sustainability requirements, and in many markets, certification is now a prerequisite for selling wool.
The AWSS is Australia’s fit-for-purpose solution, developed by AWEX in consultation with industry and backed by the AWEX Board as a strategic investment in the future of Australian wool. It integrates seamlessly with industry traceability tools WoolClip and eBale and is underpinned by the quality clip preparation standards of Australian Wool Classing that are recognised and valued worldwide.
Designed to reduce costs and complexity, reflect Australian conditions, regulations, and best practices, the AWSS helps showcase the sustainability credentials of Australian wool growers - while saving the industry time and money.
In August 2025, Wool Industries Australia (WIA) announced its support for the Australian Wool Sustainability Scheme (AWSS), recognising it as the preferred certification framework for Australian greasy wool – covering farm through to scouring.
“AWSS has been independently developed, aligns with the Australian Sheep Sustainability Framework, and reflects Australia’s production systems,” he said. “It’s the right framework to deliver more certified wool to market while reducing costs and avoiding duplication for industry.”
David Michell, WIA Chairman
Frequently Asked Questions
Both meet our sustainability standards across the board and differ only in one aspect of caring for sheep, which is breech modification status.
This allows the Australian Wool Sustainability Scheme to be inclusive of different wool production systems in Australia, while importantly having clear separation for customers for whom purchasing non-mulesed wool is important.