In recognition of the importance of promoting professional conduct and a professional image for its members, the AFSA has developed a Code of Practice. The Code establishes standards of service to enhance the confidence of clients in the service they can expect to receive from an AFSA member.

The Code acknowledges that AFSA members have a ‘duty of care’ in their operations. This duty requires members to take all reasonable care to prevent or minimize harm to the health and safety of human beings, and the broader environment. At the same time, the Code aims to ensure a sustainable and profitable future for Australian agriculture.

The AFSA is indebted to the Australian Government for its financial support for the development of the Code.

The AFSA Code of Practice is the foundation of the Australian fertilizer industry's product stewardship program Fertcare. Fertcare Level A training - and the national competency standards on which the training is based - are derived from the AFSA Code of Practice.

AFSA members are strongly encouraged to undertake the appropriate level of Fertcare training, and attain accreditation as a formal and practical means of proving their ability to meet the AFSA Code of Practice. In addition, fertilizer spreading contractors are encouraged to have their machines accredited under the Fertcare Accu-Spread program, to ensure they know the spread pattern of their machine.

Further information on Fertcare, including lists of Fertcare accredited companies, and Accu-Spread accredited machines can be found at www.fertcare.com.au.

The AFSA Code of Practice addresses the following topics

	Storage Protect the environment, prevent product contamination and exercise duty of care.
	Transport Ensuring trucks are clean to prevent contamination, reducing spillage, ensuring drivers are operating safely and minimising risk.
	Spreading Minimising environmental damage, nutrient runoff and demonstrating duty of care. Testing spreaders for accurate delivery and even application.
	Product Knowledge To ensure appropriate advice is provided for productivity, environmental and food safety outcomes
	Business Ethics To ensure honest, professional and fair business dealings with clients.