10 things to consider when buying Australian made
If you’re thinking now is the time to start supporting the local economy, from the designers and manufacturers through to the retail sector, there are a few things to consider.
We all love the idea of buying Australian-made products. In fact, many of us have watched the decline of local manufacturing in recent decades with dismay.
And the arrival of COVID-19 has brought our dependence on imported goods into sharper focus in recent months.
So if you’re thinking now is the time to start supporting the local economy, from the designers and manufacturers through to the retail sector, there are a few things to consider. For larger companies, look for the Australian Made green and gold logo. Products carrying the logo have been through a rigorous third-party accreditation system to earn the right to use it.
A little research on a company website will also reveal whether they are Australian owned and operated, using Australian materials and employing local staff. Smaller businesses will often offer more transparency, but if you want to be absolutely sure, deal directly with the maker.
Aside from indulging in a little homegrown patriotism, there’s plenty of reason to buy locally made products.
Even with larger firms, you can often customise the product to suit you and, as long as it’s in stock, delivery times are slashed. If you’ve engaged a maker, you can see the process close up and enjoy a stronger connection to the finished product. You may pay more to reflect wages, but enjoy the end result — a far superior product that will save you in the long run.
DAILY GRIND
Asher Abergel founded Dezion Studio in 2012 and creates a small range of ceramic light fittings from his studio in Marrickville. His philosophy is one of simplicity, clarity and functionality, which is evident in his latest designs, salt and pepper grinders. Ideas are organic and refined using CAD and 3D modelling. Commissions are welcome. Visit dezionstudio.com
BUILT TO LAST
Australia has a long tradition of brick making, going back to the earliest days of the colony. Major brick manufacturer Brickworks has just announced a new $126 million manufacturing plant at their Horsley Park site. An Australian owned and operated company, Brickworks is the business behind names such as Austral Bricks, Bowral Bricks and Bristile Roof Tiles. Bricks have enjoyed renewed popularity in residential construction in recent years thanks to their durability and thermal qualities. Visit: brickworks.com.au
PLEASE BE SEATED
Russel Koskela and Sasha Titchkosky are passionate about supporting local industry. The duo behind innovative homewares and furniture retailer Koskela stock a wide range of handcrafted furniture, most of which is made around the corner from their Rosebery showroom. Starting at $4000, the Brolga dining table (pictured) is definitely an investment, with a view to becoming a family heirloom. Team it with the Brolga bench for relaxed family dining. Visit: koskela.com.au
INTO THE WOOD
Furniture maker Lee Sinclair offers the complete package — originally designed pieces made locally in Brisbane using materials that are sustainably sourced. Guitarists will love the Wodalla TLS450 solid timber stool, $320 with a seat inspired by a plectrum. Made to order, delivery is 4-6 weeks. There are also chairs and beds in the range. Pictured is one of a pair of bedside tables made on commission. Commissioning clients have noted the attention to detail in the end product and the excellent communication throughout the process. Director Ross Williamson describes his style as modern and industrial, but there’s a definite Art Deco influence in his use and manipulation of the timber grain as well. Visit: leesinclairdesignco.com
TABLE SERVICE
Tableware manufacturer Mud Australia was established in Sydney in 1994 and has a faithful following thanks to its colourful ranges of plates, bowls, vases and even lighting, with pieces that look delicate but are surprisingly robust. There are 80 shapes, or silhouettes, in the collection available in 19 bespoke colours. Colour is added directly to the clay, which is imported from Limoges in France, at the slip stage and shaped using the slip cast method. Each piece will pass through at least five sets of hands before it is finished in the clear glazed interior and raw exterior for which the company has become known. All glazes and porcelain bodies are non-toxic and the ceramics are oven, dishwasher, microwave and food safe, making them easy to integrate into everyday living. Mud Australia has stores in Sydney, London and Los Angeles, but can also be found online. Look out for sales at the Marrickville studio to grab a bargain but make sure you come early — queues often go around the block. Visit: mudaustralia.com
CABINET TALKS
Furniture designer and maker Ross Thompson draws inspiration from Japanese, Bauhaus and mid-century design to create beautifully-refined pieces that have a timeless quality. The Tambour door media cabinet (pictured) is a perfect example, with sliding doors that open fully and adjustable compartments. Ross comes from a family of makers and uses traditional and contemporary joinery techniques to create his furniture. He is formally trained in furniture making and is happy to customise to suit a client’s needs. This means no two pieces will be exactly alike — unless that’s what you want. He is based in South Geelong, Victoria. Visit: rossthompson.com.au
BENCH BEAUTY
It may be a household name but you may not know that surface supplier Laminex manufactures 95 per cent of its products, including their modern laminates, engineered stone, acrylic surfaces and timber panelling products right here in Australia. While it still represents great value for money, in recent years the locally-owned and operated company has gained a reputation for creating stylish surfaces that echo the beauty of natural products like stone without the maintenance issues. In addition, the company has also made a stronger commitment to sustainability, looking to reduce potentially harmful chemicals in the water-based resins used to produce its high pressure laminates. Visit: laminex.com.au
BEDTIME STORY
Retail giant Harvey Norman has its own range of Australian-made beds, lounges and furniture, reflecting its commitment to local manufacturing and ensuring the highest quality product for its customers.
No one understands Australian conditions like the locals do. All Australian-made products on the website feature the distinctive green and gold kangaroo logo for easy identification.
The Hunter bed (pictured), is one of several designs exclusive to Harvey Norman and is finished in Victorian ash veneers.
You can customise the bedhead, with a range of upholstered inserts to choose from. Other Australian-made furniture from Harvey Norman includes the Plaza sofa with chaise, and the Herringbone tallboy finished in silvertop ash. Visit: harveynorman.com.au
BY HAND
These beautiful bowls are all made by hand in a converted garage on a farm in regional Victoria by Clay Beehive founder Mel. Every piece is unique, but she is also available for custom orders. Pieces sell quickly but you can pre-order to guarantee you get exactly what you want. Visit: claybeehive.com
CURVES AHEAD
Anthony Kleine is a woodworker and furniture maker based in the Melbourne suburb of Preston. He works with a range of timbers and specialises in making tables and wood-turning. All his products are custom made. His Itto tables start from $2725 with a 6-8-week wait from the order date, while his blackwood window seat with four doors starts at $2000 with a 3-4-week delivery time. Pictured is an installation Anthony made for an installation at Craft Victoria to showcase his wood-turning skills and show an alternative to ceramics for tableware. Visit handkrafted.com/akwt
Originally published as 10 things to consider when buying Australian made
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