Over the years, the famous Australia Made, AMAG logo has become a true mark of Australian authenticity – recognised by almost 99% of Australians. This trusted symbol has become an important part of many consumers’ buying decisions. But what does it take to earn this logo? 

The truth is, securing the right to use the Australian Made logo can be less complicated than one might think. Many companies exploit the system, using the logo as a marketing tool rather than truly supporting Australian manufacturing. For consumers, this can lead to confusion and disappointment.

What is the Australian Made Logo?

The green and yellow clad kangaroo, paired with the words “Australia” and “Made” in bold letters, supposedly certifies that a product is Australian made. This essentially means that the product has had its final major change in Australia. It is a trademark used by companies nation-wide, managed by the Australian Made Campaign, which promotes Australian-made goods and supports local industries. However, it’s important to understand what this means:

• Substantial Transformation: The product must undergo significant processing in Australia, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that all components or raw materials are sourced locally.
• 50% Local Production Costs: The final product must have more than 50% of its production costs incurred in Australia, which could include labor, overheads, and materials.
• Annual License Fee: The Australia Made logo is not just bestowed upon companies that meet the eligibility criteria, but rather, is paid for annually by each user with a minimum fee of $1000 for annual sales between 1 million – 2.5 million AUD. 

While these criteria might sound solid, the logo’s certification process is often more about meeting basic legal requirements than ensuring true local craftsmanship.

The Problem with the Australian Made Logo

While the Australian Made logo is widely recognised, its meaning can be unclear. Companies may meet the basic criteria to use the logo without actually producing their products locally. 

• Loose Criteria: Companies can import raw materials or components and only assemble them in Australia, which meets the basic requirements but doesn’t reflect true local manufacturing.
• Marketing Over Authenticity: The logo has become more about brand appeal than guaranteeing that products are truly Australian-made and manufactured, leading to misleading claims.

In industries like Ute accessories, this discrepancy is especially concerning. Many products labeled “Australian Made” are actually made using foreign components and simply packaged in Australia, which undermines the true meaning of the logo.

Why Choosing True Australian Manufactured Products Matters

Choosing Australian-manufactured products has several benefits:

• Supporting Local Jobs: Buying Australian-manufactured products helps sustain and grow the local workforce, ensuring that Australian manufacturers can remain competitive globally.
• Environmentally Friendly: Local production typically results in a smaller carbon footprint compared to imported goods, as shipping and transport are minimised.
• Higher Quality & Safety Standards: Australian-manufactured products are subject to stricter quality control and safety regulations, giving consumers peace of mind.
• Faster Turn Around: Local manufacturing often leads to quicker production and delivery times, reducing waiting periods. 

A True Representation of Australian Manufacturing

HSP Vehicle Accessories stands out because we don’t just meet the minimum requirements—we go above and beyond to ensure all core products are authentically Australian-manufactured. Here’s why HSP is the real deal:

• Locally Sourced Materials: HSP Vehicle Accessories uses Australian suppliers for materials, ensuring that our products support local businesses and industries.
• Australian Jobs: By employing local workers, HSP helps create and sustain jobs within the Australian manufacturing sector. HSP has set up 3 Victorian manufacturing plants for products such as the Roll R Cover, Load Rack, Load Bar and more. 
• Tailored for Australian Conditions: HSP’s products are designed and tested specifically for the harsh Australian environment, ensuring quality and durability.

For HSP, being Australian Made isn’t just about a logo—it’s a commitment to quality, local jobs, and the Australian economy. This is why HSP chooses not to use the label, as it stands for much more than just a symbol.