Internal Audits: Supporting Your Certification

Freshcare Sustainability Project Officer Kerrie Barker had the opportunity to sit in on an internal audit with Scarborough Wine Company. It was a chance to observe the Standard in practice and explore ways Freshcare can offer stronger support going forward. 

Insights from the Internal Audit 

“Sitting in on the recent internal audit proved to be a valuable experience. It gave a close-up look at how different parts of the Standard are being interpreted in practice. It also highlighted where Freshcare can provide additional support – whether that’s by updating resources so businesses have clearer information at their fingertips, or by providing additional explanatory detail ensuring auditors have consistent guidance when assessing compliance. 

“One of the most exciting takeaways was seeing just how far businesses have come on their Sustainability Action Plans. What used to feel like aspirational goals are now simply part of day-to-day operations. That’s a great sign of progress towards making sustainability truly “business as usual”. 

“The internal audit also sparked some positive discussions among managers. In fact, the conversations led to a few fresh ideas being added to the Sustainability Action Plan – proof that these audits aren’t just a tick-the-box exercise, but a real opportunity to reflect, share insights, and keep improving.” – Kerrie Barker, Sustainability Project Officer 

Why do businesses conduct internal audits? 

Internal audits are like a health check for your farm business. 

They are a planned, systematic check of a business’s sustainability management system and sustainable on-farm practices. 

Why are internal audits a critical part of certification? 

Implementing a sustainability standard isn’t about “ticking the box” to pass an audit. It’s about building stronger business practices that safeguard your business’s future. 

The internal audit is an integral part of the Standard as it gives you the chance to step back and review your records, practices, and systems before being verified by an external auditor. 

By doing an internal audit, you confirm you: 

• Conform to the Freshcare Australian Wine Industry Standard of Sustainable Practice. 

• Have implemented the Standard well and it is effective in controlling environmental risks and meeting objectives. 

• Ensure records are up-to-date, accurate and contain all the required information. 

• Are managing legal and other compliance obligations (permits, chemical use, waste, water, biodiversity, noise, etc.). 

• Identify any inefficiencies and problems and correct them. 

What can you learn by conducting an internal audit? 

Every internal audit provides valuable insights. You may discover: 

• Strengths – parts of your farm management that are working well and demonstrate best practice. 

• Weak spots – areas where records are incomplete, policies are missing, or actions haven’t been fully followed through. 

• Opportunities for improvement – practical ways to streamline record-keeping, reduce risks, or save costs. 

It’s not just about ticking boxes. Internal audits help you learn more about your own business, and often highlight efficiencies that make life easier in the long run.