MEDIA STATEMENT – Australian Owned Logo Evolution

Australian Owned (“AO”), a certification and licensing organisation, has announced the evolution of the Australian Owned logo.  Determined to reflect the organisation’s advancement, Australian Owned will no longer issue star ratings, instead officially awarding assessed businesses, Australian Owned Certification.  As a result of this change, the star-rating indicator will be phased out, replaced by a certification indicator – “Australian Owned Certified”.  

This change coincides with the recent review of the Australian Owned Rules governing use of the AO trademark.  During this review, Australian Owned conducted in-depth research, market analysis, as well as engaged in discussions with existing licensees and the public.  Founder Eddie Kocwa explained, “Our vision has been to build transparency and trust in the Australian Owned Certified logo for both business and consumer.  As a result of the findings from our extensive research and market engagement, we are thrilled to unveil our refreshed certification logo, reflecting the organisation’s evolution while keeping our core beliefs and mission unchanged”.

“We uniquely have the capabilities to make connections that bond Australian businesses and businesspeople to get sustainable results for our country and economy.  This advancement will ensure transparency and contribute to our mission of local and national growth objectives in the business sector, with particular focus on manufacturing.  This all contributes to the long-term prosperity of our country, as well as fostering the development of new Australian business relationships” Mr Kocwa said.  

All Australian Owned logos will continue to bear AO identification numbers.  This was identified as a “high-value” feature of the logo.  The Australian Owned Certified logo offers a transparent message, that the business bearing this mark has been certified as an Australian Owned business.  Only businesses with considerable Australian influence are awarded an Australian Owned Certified logo, signifying, and recognising that the Australian economy will benefit by the support of the business/product bearing the logo.

Australian Owned (“AO”) was established in early 2020 and since being launched, has grown exponentially with thousands of licensees based across all corners of Australia.  The AO logo is only held by businesses that pass a rigorous assessment process and includes a unique AO ID number.  The Australian Owned Certification Trademark is registered with IP Australia and its Rules are lodged with the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (“ACCC”).  For enquiries, contact [email protected].