Seed certification is a process that sets out to protect the genetic identity of seed. This means that plants grown from certified seed can be expected to look and perform in the way that the breeder originally described for that cultivar.

The process of seed certification also makes sure that the connection between the original crop and the final product in the bag is never broken -  consumers can be confident that the seed described on a certified seed bag label is referring to the seed that is actually in that bag – and that it can be traced back to the paddock where it was grown.

Certified seed is also grown and processed to meet a number of physical quality standards, such as:

• the percentage of clean, whole seed relative to inert materials (such as chaff, dirt etc).
• germinability
• minimum numbers of other crop and weed seeds

Seed Services Australia inspects and certifies seed to OECD, AOSCA and domestic seed certification standards. For information about AOSCA certification contact the Manager, Seed Services Australia.

Growing Certified Seed
Information for new certified seed growers.

Thinking about buying Certified Seed
For farmers looking to buy certified seed, check here for some important information.

Applying for Seed Certification Services
Find out how to apply for seed certification services. Print off a Certified Seed Crop Application form.

SureSeed®Program
The new affordable seed program for bulk and bagged seed lots.

Procedures & Standards Manual for SA Seed Certification Scheme - May 2002 
Refer to this publication for detailed information about the seed certification process and individual crop standards for all species.