Australian Certified Organic
Australian Certified Organic - subsidiary of Biological Farmers of Australia
ACO provides certification services to operators from all sectors of the organic industry. Certification ensures compliance with national production standards and allows trace back of all products to their origin.
Key Strengths
- One of Australia's oldest and most recognised organic certification bodies
- Covers the full organic supply chain from farm to retail
- Backed by Biological Farmers of Australia, the country's peak organic industry body
- Enables access to domestic and international organic markets
- Third-party audited to ISO/IEC Guide 65 for high credibility
- Iconic bud logo widely recognised by Australian consumers
Ideal For
Best suited for Australian farmers, processors, handlers, and exporters seeking to market their products as certified organic in domestic and international markets. Ideal for businesses across the organic supply chain — from primary producers to retailers — who need credible third-party verification of their organic practices.
Target Audiences
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Alignment & Recognition
Accrediting Body
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Overview
ACO provides certification services to operators from all sectors of the organic industry. Certification ensures compliance with national production standards and allows trace back of all products to their origin.
Requirements & Verification
Evidence Requirements
Conformity with Australian Certified Organic's standard is verified by an independent organization (third party) following ISO / IEC Guide 65 Product Certification
Prerequisites
Assessment Process
Certification is assessed through an annual on-site inspection conducted by an ACO-approved third-party inspector. The inspector reviews the operator's organic management system, production records, input registers, land history, and operational practices. Documentation is assessed against the Australian Certified Organic Standard. A desk audit of submitted records precedes the physical inspection. Non-conformances must be addressed before certification is granted or renewed.
Renewal & Compliance
Certification must be renewed annually. Operators are subject to annual inspections and audits by ACO-approved inspectors to verify ongoing compliance with the Australian Certified Organic Standard. Renewal requires submission of updated records, an annual system description, and payment of annual certification fees. Unannounced audits may also occur.
Accountability Model
Impact & Outcomes
Employer Recognition
Consider Alternatives If...
Businesses operating outside Australia or seeking internationally-focused certification may prefer IFOAM-accredited bodies with broader global recognition. Operators looking for a lower-cost or self-declaration approach to organic marketing should consider whether full third-party certification is required for their target market.
Alternative Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
Certification
English
2002
How to Use This Label
Certification Details
Assessment
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Structure
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Sources & Citations
Content on this page is AI-enriched from primary sources.
Program WebsiteAustralian Certified Organic - subsidiary of Biological Farmers of AustraliaLast verified Mar 11, 2026