Upgrade to Trade for the Carpet Cleaning and restoration Industries is a key initiative of the National Upholstery, Carpet Cleaners and Restorers Association (NUCCRA).

Since inception, NUCCA, and now NUCCRA, has introduced initiatives to bring about professional improvements within the industry through ethical standards, Australian Standards and continuing professional development and accreditation. A large part of the industry has benefited from these initiatives and the industry boasts much higher skill levels, a commitment to ongoing training and Government funded traineeships.

There are also two Australian Standards in place for the Carpet cleaning and Upholstery cleaning sectors and a third standard pertaining to the Restoration trades is in the early stages of development. The Industry has been plagued by low quality work and intermediate profitability, which largely stems from poor business practice and inconsistent outcomes from low skilled operators & entrants.