HARPS Newsletter March 2023 Edition

The HARPS Version 2.0 Standard has been live since 17^th October 2022, with multiple businesses opting to be audited to the new standard since its launch. Congratulations to these businesses for their swift transition!

In this edition of the HARPS Newsletter, you’ll find information about the new Freshcare and HARPS combined resources. The resources bring together the requirements of the Freshcare Food Safety & Quality Standard (FSQ4.2) and the Supply Chain Standard 2 (SC2) with the requirements of the HARPS Version 2.0 Standard.

In addition, we’ve provided you with a reminder of the timelines to transition to HARPS Version 2.0 and where you can find support to help with the transition.

Given the popularity of the HARPS Industry Webinar in November 2022, we’ve planned another session for the end of March. During this webinar, we’ll be answering frequently asked questions raised since the launch of the new standard, and once again focus on changes to the HARPS Scheme Rules. This session will also be recorded for those unable to attend.

Feel free to visit the HARPS website www.harpsonline.com.au or call the HARPS Helpline 1300 852 219 for any queries.

HARPS Version 2.0 Transition Timelines
We are approaching the mandatory transition date for Tier 1 suppliers to HARPS Version 2.0 (there is an extended transition timeline for Tier 2 suppliers).

HARPS suppliers have the option of selecting either HARPS Version 1.0 or HARPS Version 2.0 for their audits in accordance with the following timelines:

• • Tier 1: Version 2.0 will become mandatory for Tier 1 suppliers from 17th April 2023. So, from 17th April 2023, Tier 1 suppliers will be unable to use HARPS Version 1.0.
  • Tier 2: Suppliers have 12 months to transition to Version 2.0, with a mandatory transition date of 16th October 2023. So, from 16th October 2023, Tier 1 Suppliers will be unable to use Version 1.0.

Click here to view the previous webinar.

NEW! Freshcare and HARPS Combined Resources – now available!

INDUSTRY ANNOUNCEMENT Freshcare and HARPS Shared Resources: Successfully Piloted and Ready for Growers & Supply Chain Businesses.

Freshcare Certified businesses that also have a requirement for approval to the Harmonised Australia Retailer Scheme (HARPS) can now benefit from a single user-friendly resource that incorporates both standards. Growers and supply chain businesses can benefit from these forms starting today. Click here to learn more.

Support available for Version 2.0

In addition to the Guidance embedded within the new standard, a range of supporting documentation and material has been developed. The following tools and training will be available to support your businesses transition to Version 2.0:

• HARPS Version 1.0 – 2.0 Summary of Changes (document);
• Version 2.0 Internal Audit (document that replaces the HARPS Pre-Assessment document);
• Transition Training online (short videos to support understanding, as an alternative to using HARPS Version 1.0 – 2.0 Summary of Changes;
• HARPS and Freshcare Internal Audit (document that covers the additional requirements of HARPS for suppliers on FSQ4.2 and SC2).

As always, you can contact us via the HARPS Website by filling in an enquiry form or contact the HARPS Helpline.

The document library on the HARPS website has been updated with a host of new documents to help support your business transitioning to Version 2.0.

Which Certification Body can I choose from?

Did you know that there are seven Certification Bodies that can audit against the HARPS Standard? Under the HARPS Scheme Rules – Certification Body Matrix, available here, you can access the Certification Bodies that are permitted to audit your business.

For Tier 1 Suppliers, the HARPS retailer makes the decision for which Certification Bodies are approved.

For Tier 2 Suppliers, the Certification Body must be approved to conduct the audit for your chosen GFSI standard. For Tier 2 suppliers to Costco, please take note of the additional rules as shown below.