Finalists:

C-Wise – Driving Innovation to Combat Soil Degradation and Climate Change, WA

C-Wise is transforming the way we view organic waste, turning it into a valuable resource that enhances soil health, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and supports sustainable agriculture. With nearly three decades of experience, this Western Australian company has pioneered innovative solutions, including advanced composting technologies to create high-quality, carbon-rich soil conditioners.
In 2024, C-Wise diverted over 70,000 tonnes of organic by-products from landfill, significantly reducing uncontrolled decomposition emissions. Its cutting-edge Keralup facility, set to open in 2025, will process 200,000 tonnes of organic waste annually, further amplifying its impact.
C-Wise’s collaboration with First Nations businesses integrates traditional ecological knowledge into modern practices, fostering cultural preservation and economic empowerment. By combining advanced technology, sustainability, and community engagement, C-Wise sets a global benchmark for circular economy practices, proving that waste can truly become a resource.

Farmers for Climate Action, VIC

Farmers are at the sharp end of climate change and feel the impacts every day, yet they own 50% of the landmass in Australia and have the greatest opportunity for impactful change. Farmers For Climate Action (FCA) is a farmer-led organisation leveraging our strong industry and grassroots relationships to ensure farms can farm forever, and supporting farmers to take strong action on climate change. We are the only farmer-led organisation that focuses on climate action. Only FCA has 8,400 farmer members in a climate and country where farmers are trusted spokespeople for middle-ground and conservative audiences. Through regular training programs, our members are equipped to deliver persuasive, on-message communications through interviews, media engagements, and press conferences.

Gina’s Table (SSS Strawberries), QLD

business farming strawberries in regional Queensland that has grown to become Australia’s second largest strawberry producer. Six years ago, current Managing Director Gina Dang began investigating ways to reduce food waste by converting supermarket-rejected strawberries into nutritious snacks. Innovation and strategic planning have placed SSS Strawberries at the forefront of sustainable agriculture. The answer to how we can transform food waste into opportunity lies in their state-of-the-art freeze-drying facility, set to be the largest in Australia with the capacity to freeze dry 2000 kilograms of produce within hours. Designed with scalability in mind, the facility can extend services to other primary producers. SSS Strawberries’ initiative is a clear example of innovation in the agri-food industry. By pioneering a large-scale freeze-drying facility in Australia, they are addressing food waste in a novel way, transforming surplus fruits into nutrient-dense products.

Lenah Game Meats Pty Ltd, TAS

Lenah Game Meats processes wild harvested Bennett’s Wallaby, Brushtail Possums, Forester Kangaroos and deer, creating high-value food and fibre products from animals that would otherwise be culled and wasted.
Wallaby meat is Lenah’s signature product, a high protein meat containing low levels of embedded carbon (2.39kg C/kg compared to beef with up to 30kg C/kg). Lenah’s vision is to offer a new paradigm for Tasmanian agriculture, value adding an otherwise wasted resource. Providing a value to species that have been viewed as pests offers flow on benefits for habitat retention, biodiversity and animal welfare.
Over Lenah’s 30 years of operations, consumption of wallaby meat rather than beef has abated over 92,000,000kg of carbon emissions.
The business prioritises zero waste, with creative uses for by-products, including “Wuggs”, wallaby fur Ugg boots.

Terra Temptations t/as Bumbak’s Preserves & Icecreams, WA

Bumbak’s Preserves and Icecreams, located on a plantation in Carnarvon, Western Australia, offers a wide range of award-winning homemade products, including preserves, ice creams, smoothies, dried fruits, baked goods, and gourmet chocolates. These products are made from ‘rescued’ waste produce that would otherwise be discarded, showcasing the innovative use of waste and pioneering a sustainable zero-waste production model. As an award-winning, sustainable plantation destination, Bumbak’s is committed to addressing food waste at the grassroots level, fostering creativity, and promoting environmental practices that support the horticultural industry and the local community. With its focus on sustainability and the ‘plantation to plate’ experience, Bumbak’s is helping preserve the region’s horticultural future.

Finalists:

City of Joondalup, WA

The City of Joondalup Climate Change Strategy adopted a multi-faceted and science-backed approach that aims to adapt and mitigate against climate change impacts, rapid urban growth and increasing urban heat-island effect. The City strived towards improving biodiversity and increasing urban tree canopy cover by planting over 10,000 trees and implementing biodiversity initiatives. The City’s nursery produced a further 20,000 native plants for community planting initiatives.
To encourage residents to create their own waterwise native gardens the City provided 7,850 native plants to residents. Collaboration with other organisations supported 5,000 bird-friendly native seedlings being planted in two urban parks, with residents being active participants. Thirteen Natural Area Management Plans provided a targeted approach ensuring all natural areas are managed strategically and effectively to support biodiversity. Ecozoning, hydrozoning and a smart irrigation system used in all City parks and sporting fields generated significant water savings while creating inviting green open spaces for community enjoyment.

First Hand Solutions Aboriginal Corporation – IndigiGrow, NSW

IndigiGrow’s “Caring for Country” program is focused on increasing biodiversity by making native plants more accessible to everyone through wholesale pricing enabling the broader public to work alongside IndigiGrow to increase biodiversity by planting natives.“By making native plants more accessible & affordable whilst educating the wider community on the benefits of planting natives means communities work with us to speed up the process of increasing biodiversity and push towards a sustainable environment”, explains Peter Cooley, CEO of First Hand Solutions Aboriginal Corporation who runs IndigiGrow. “Plants are connectors, and they connect all of us regardless of age, background and gender “Using local critically endangered native plant species as the vehicle, First Hand Solutions Aboriginal Corporation is dedicated to achieving positive social change through IndigiGrow by engaging, employing and connecting young local Aboriginal people to country”, while undertaking 4 year apprenticeships in horticulture,”Peter said.

Mulloon Institute, NSW

Mulloon Institute’s approach to catchment restoration is a community project that engages local landholders to restore biodiversity and build climate resilience. The award-winning Mulloon Rehydration Initiative (MRI) in southern NSW partners with 23 landholders to restore the Mulloon catchment across 23,000 hectares and 50 km of creeks. The community collaborates to reverse erosion, rejuvenating Mulloon Creek with natural infrastructure solutions to support a restored, thriving ecosystem. These include strategic instream interventions and regenerative land management to enhance water, carbon and nutrient cycles. The restored water cycle supports biodiversity, including threatened species like the Scarlet Robin and Yellow-spotted Bell Frog. Initially a 3km pilot, the MRI now enjoys strong community support and is recognised globally by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network. The project contributes to UNSD Goals 6, 13, 14, 15, and 17 and serves as a model for other national initiatives, empowering farmers and First Nations people.

Murdoch University - Miyawaki Forest Program: Transforming Urban Spaces through Biodiversity, WA

Murdoch University’s Miyawaki Forest Program is pioneering a transformative approach to urban ecological restoration in Western Australia. By applying the Miyawaki method, which creates densely planted, biodiverse forests using native species, the program addresses critical challenges such as biodiversity loss, urban heat, and habitat degradation, restoring small pockets of the endangered Banksia woodland across the Swan Coastal Plain. What sets this initiative apart is its integration of cutting-edge ecological research with hands-on community engagement. The program has established 15 urban forests in schools and community spaces, involving thousands of students in planting and monitoring activities. These pocket-forests not only enhance biodiversity and provide critical habitat for native species but also foster a sense of environmental stewardship and well-being among participants. Highlighted by UNESCO and national media, the program offers a scalable model for urban reforestation globally, demonstrating how local action can drive significant environmental and social impacts.

Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust - Project Cultivate: Melbourne General Cemetery, VIC

The Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (SMCT) is undertaking horticultural works aimed at enhancing the natural landscapes of our historical cemetery sites. Known as Project Cultivate, the works involve large-scale planting of locally native plants and grasses to revitalise cemetery sites while complementing surrounding monuments, pathways and facilities. Carried out in consultation with stakeholders including families, the local community and Traditional Owners, the project is succeeding in establishing a beautiful biodiverse environment that can be sustainably maintained. Project Cultivate began as an exploratory pilot at Melbourne General Cemetery (MGC) in May 2023 and has been designed to offer cemetery managers and visitors sustainable alternatives to traditional cemetery management practices and landscapes with demonstrable and visible benefits, through the recreation of indigenous grassland environments.

Trust for Nature, VIC

On Victoria's northern plains, conservation organisation Trust for Nature is partnering with landholders, First Peoples, government, business and community organisations to protect one of the world's most unique and endangered species. The Plains-wanderer is a critically endangered bird that depends on native grasslands. Unfortunately, less than 10% of this important habitat remains. But Trust for Nature is permanently protecting habitat for the Plains-wanderer through agreements with landholders called conservation covenants. Landholders like wool-growers Jo and Greg Bear, who recently protected 90 ha of grassland on their property through Trust for Nature. Their property is among 1,600+ covenants safeguarding 116,000 ha since 1972. Trust for Nature is ambitiously scaling up conservation efforts to protect another 100,000 ha by 2030. Because grazing is an effective way to keep native grasslands healthy, Jo and Greg can continue to graze sheep. A win-win for conservation and for farmers. “It's a never-ending commitment to our grasslands and their environment,” says Jo. “We're feeling like we’re working together in a collaboration – we can bring a lot to the table as well and perhaps inspire other farmers to do the same."

Finalists:

Bridge Housing - The Glebe Aboriginal Women’s Housing project, NSW

The Glebe Aboriginal Women’s Housing project by Bridge Housing exemplifies a pioneering approach to n the built environment, building on sustainability and resilience through innovative design and practices. This initiative stands out for delivering 20 sustainable, culturally tailored homes for Aboriginal women that nurture connections to culture, country, and community. This project demonstrates a practical and economically sustainable urban development that makes a local contribution to global efforts creating a more equitable and environmentally responsible future.
The driving force behind the Glebe project is a commitment to purpose, social equity and responsible urban development. As a not-for-profit community housing provider, every decision Bridge Housing makes is guided by its mission to reinvest resources into creating more social and affordable housing opportunities. By taking a holistic approach that considers cultural needs alongside environmental sustainability, this project sets a new standard for inclusive, community-focused housing initiatives.

Central Station Metro, NSW

Sydney Metro is underpinned by a commitment to plan, design, build and operate a metro system for current and future generations. The City & Southwest project is an enabler for long term growth in the city, facilitating urban development for many of Sydney's iconic locations. The Central Station Metro upgrade, is at the forefront of this vision. Laing O’Rourke proudly transformed Australia’s busiest railway station within a live operating environment. The Central Station Metro upgrade is the most significant upgrade in decades to the 118-year-old heritage landmark, to enable long term customer growth and greater connectivity to multi-mode transport. Central Station Metro has achieved the highest accolades across two 3rd party rating schemes; a 6 star Green Star - Custom (Sydney Metro) Certified Rating representing World Leadership and a Certified Infrastructure Sustainability As Built v1.2 - Leading rating from Infrastructure Sustainability Council.

John Holland - Hobsons Bay Main Duplication Project, VIC

The Hobsons Bay Main (HBM) Sewer is a vital part of Melbourne’s sewer network, transferring approximately 30% of the city’s wastewater to the Western Treatment Plant in Werribee. John Holland was appointed by Melbourne Water, to design and construct a duplicate sewer tunnel from Spotswood to Port Melbourne under the Yarra River. The Spotswood site is located within Melbourne’s Scienceworks museum, operating year-round with over 500,000 visitors annually. The Port Melbourne site is located within a State Park – Westgate Park. Our small project had a vision to be the most sustainable construction project possible, and achieved the following outcomes:
- Reduction of Embodied Carbon by 34%
- The first carbon neutral construction project, contributing to the progression of John Holland's and Melbourne Water's Net-Zero strategy.
- Reaching gender parity within the project team
- Offered award winning social impact and employment opportunities
- True collaboration with local communities resulting in 95% community satisfaction.

McConnell Dowell Constructors - Mount Derrimut Road LXRP, VIC

The Mt Derrimut Road Level Crossing Removal Project in Deer Park, was delivered by the Level Crossing Removal Project’s Western Program Alliance (LXRP, McConnell Dowell, Mott MacDonald Arup, MTM and V/Line). It was the first station to use structural concrete incorporating recycled plastic, helping to reduce the carbon footprint of the concrete by 40%. A further 300 tonnes of carbon have been saved every year thanks to hundreds of solar panels on the station’s new bus shelters. Cooling features were included in the new station precinct to reduce heat and create a cooler suburb for locals with nearly 500 new and upgraded car parks sealed with CoolSeal, a sealing agent that reduces the heat generated by asphalt surfaces and helps to reduce ambient air temperatures. It includes Victoria’s first roof top garden on a station building and more than 50,000 new trees, shrubs and grasses planted across the precinct.

Porous Lane, VIC

Porous Lane has developed a pioneering solution to two significant urban challenges: waste management and stormwater control. By transforming end-of-life tyres into permeable pavement, Porous Lane repurposes waste that would otherwise contribute to landfill overflow, while providing a sustainable infrastructure option for cities. The pavement’s high permeability allows water to infiltrate naturally, reducing runoff, mitigating urban flooding, and supporting groundwater recharge. Installed across diverse settings such as nature strips and carparks, the pavement adapts to various urban needs and contributes to resilient, eco-friendly communities. Through partnerships with organisations like Tyre Stewardship Australia and the University of Melbourne, Porous Lane has successfully implemented pilot projects and continuously monitored for data on durability, infiltration rates, and environmental impact. Recognised for its innovative use of materials and significant environmental benefits, Porous Lane’s permeable pavement solution stands as a model for sustainable urban development, fostering a circular economy and reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional materials.

Vicinity Centres - Chadstone Place, VIC

Vicinity Centres' Chadstone Place redevelopment is a ground-breaking example of sustainable commercial design, earning Australia’s first Zero Carbon Certification from Living Future, the international standard addressing both operational and embodied carbon emissions. This innovative retrofit cut over 1.1 million kilograms of embodied carbon and exceeded energy efficiency targets by 62%. Fully powered by on-site renewable energy, Chadstone Place meets the rising demand for net-zero spaces, offering a practical solution for companies pursuing ambitious emissions goals. The impact goes beyond environmental success: tenant Officeworks reported a 27% increase in employee engagement after moving in, highlighting the benefits of sustainable workplace design on well-being and productivity. Chadstone Place demonstrates how existing buildings can be transformed into high-performing, environmentally responsible and financially viable spaces, setting a new industry benchmark. It showcases the power of collaboration between tenants, landlords, and consultants to drive meaningful change in the built environment.

Finalists:

BlockTexx - Textile Recovery Technologies, QLD

BlockTexx has created a world-first solution to tackle a huge problem: how to recycle clothes made from a mix of polyester and cotton. Most of these fabrics end up in landfills because they’re so hard to recycle. Using their special technology, BlockTexx breaks down these clothes and turns them into two useful materials: recycled polyester (PolyTexx®) and cellulose (CellTexx®), which can be reused in new products. Their recycling plant in Queensland can handle 10,000 tonnes of fabric every year (that's 8000 shirts an hour!), keeping mountains of clothes out of landfills and cutting down on pollution. They also use blockchain technology to track every step of the recycling process, so nothing goes to waste. BlockTexx is leading the way in making the fashion and textile industry circular - their work shows how smart ideas can turn old clothes into something valuable.

Brainwave Australia, VIC 

In only two years, Brainwave Bikes, in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz, 99 Bikes, WISE Employment, Cleanaway, Citywide and local governments, has become the largest recycler and retailer of used bikes in the country. With over half a million used bikes in Melbourne destined for landfill, Brainwave Bikes is at the forefront of changing behaviour of Melbournians of used bikes as deserving another life rather than being seen as waste, and creating a circular economy for used bicycles. As well as proving quality, affordable bikes for all ages, as a social enterprise, Brainwave Bikes enables unemployed young people with brain illnesses and injuries to enter the workforce and change their lives forever.

Citizen Wolf, NSW

Fashion is a wildly inefficient industry, with 1/3 of all clothing made every year ending up in landfill unsold. At Citizen Wolf, our mission is to unf*ck fashion by creating the technology that makes mass production obsolete. We exist to validate a new business model built on circular design principles married with an onshore, on-demand and zero-waste manufacturing system. Our Sydney factory combines your biometric data with our Magic Fit® technology to create personalised manufacturing at scale, with 48% less carbon per garment and zero landfill. We offer free repairs for life and a take-back scheme that combines end-of-life garments with our cutting room waste to create recycled fabrics. We are proudly B Corp certified and our 100% circular business model is better for customers and better for the planet – because we cannot solve climate change without first changing the default model of overproduction in the fashion industry.

Green Eco Technologies, VIC

GET developed a cutting-edge technique that is applied to turn organic waste into a useful reusable resource. We reduce methane emissions and CO2 emissions from food waste transportation by diverting the waste from landfill. The WasteMaster conversion system was designed to give organisations a quick and easy solution to cut down on their carbon footprint while realising significant economic savings on waste disposal.
By keeping food waste out of the landfill, the WasteMaster system stops the release of dangerous methane into the atmosphere. The WasteMaster transforms putrescible waste into a pathogen-free, nutrient-rich, odour-neutral residue in less than 24 hours. This residue is then used to make high-value products or renewable energy.

Soap Aid, VIC

Soap Aid’s innovative Hotel to Hands waste soap recycling initiative is a Circular Economy solution addressing 3 critical issues:
1. 4 billion people globally lack proper sanitation
2. Annually, over 1.5 million people, including 400,00 children, die from hygiene-related diseases like diarrhea and pneumonia.
3. Millions of bars of hard soap are sent to landfill yearly by accommodation providers across Australia and New Zealand.
Hygiene illnesses and deaths can be reduced by over 40% by hygiene behaviour change education and handwashing with a bar of soap. The Initiative provides accommodations with an opportunity to divert their waste guest soap bars from landfill and give it a second life. They subscribe to the Hotel to Hands programme for an annual fee, per room, the waste soap is sent to Soap Aid who then create brand-new hygienic soap bars that are given freely to communities in hygiene crisis, in Australia and overseas.

Sustainable Salons, NSW

Founded in 2015, Sustainable Salons is the first comprehensive resource recovery program for the hair and beauty industry in the Southern Hemisphere. Co-founders Paul Frasca, a hairdresser since age 11, and Ewelina Soroko, a fashion sustainability expert, created a circular program to tackle the over 1.5 million kilograms of salon waste sent to Australian landfills annually. The program diverts up to 95% of materials—plastics, metals, hair, chemicals, and tools—from landfill, giving them a new life through recycling and repurposing. Sustainable Salons champions a circular economy by transforming waste into resources. Proceeds from recovered materials have funded over 394,470 meals through OzHarvest and KiwiHarvest, while inclusive employment initiatives create jobs for people with disabilities. By leveraging innovative technology, partnerships, and member support, the program has diverted over 2 million kilograms of salon waste and helped over 1,500 salons in Australia and New Zealand embed sustainability into their business models.

Winning Group, NSW

The Winning Group’s sustainability initiatives promote circularity by encouraging responsible consumption and facilitating the recycling of appliances, mattresses, and packaging across its retail brands—Winnings, Appliances Online, Andoo, Home Clearance—and logistics partners. Through pioneering free take-back programs, customers can recycle e-waste, mattresses, and packaging, keeping materials in circulation and preventing harmful chemicals from polluting the environment. Since 2005, John Winning has led the way with a free e-waste solution, now covering 95% of Australia. In 2021, the program expanded to include recycling of cardboard, EPS, soft plastics, timber crates, and mattresses, making the Group the only Australian retailer to offer this service at no cost. Through partnerships with key suppliers and the launch of an industry-first Recycling Partnership Program, the Winning Group is scaling the program, supporting domestic manufacturing, and driving broader industry change. The Group has recycled over 80,000 tonnes of e-waste, becoming Australia’s largest retail collector.

Finalists:

Close Comfort Pty Ltd – Coolzy, WA

Close Comfort have invented and commercialised the Coolzy, a tiny air-conditioner providing affordable, energy-efficient, sustainable cooling for people. A Coolzy concentrates cooling where it counts, on people, saving the energy that conventional room air-conditioners waste cooling floors, walls and ceilings. Easily portable, people move it where they use it, saving cost and installation hassles in every room. In steamy, tropical climates, Coolzy reduces the energy needed for comfort by up to 90%, to as little as 100 Watts per person. Billions of people in Asia, Africa and the Americas suffer fitful sleep for months in temperatures above physiological limits, stifling productivity. Quality sleep for everyone is a prerequisite for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Attempting that with conventional air-conditioning would literally cook the climate. Coolzy technology can meet this need, saving up to 17 Gigatonnes of carbon emissions between now and 2080, about 35 times Australia’s annual emissions.

Solar Thermal Australia - Reclaim Energy, NSW

Reclaim Energy exemplifies leadership in energy innovation by designing the world’s first WiFi-enabled CO₂ heat pump system, seamlessly integrating solar energy for residential and commercial use. Our system empowers consumers to maximise the efficiency of their excess solar power, reducing energy costs and emissions. Through partnerships with Panasonic and Solar Analytics, we have introduced advanced technology to the market, such as load-shifting and enhanced data management tools. We are expanding into commercial sectors with groundbreaking high-temperature heat pumps for industries like dairies and breweries, eliminating the need for gas systems. Beyond our technology, Reclaim has influenced industry-wide adoption of low-GWP refrigerants and stricter Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS), reshaping regulatory frameworks for sustainability. By actively collaborating with governments, councils, and community groups, Reclaim is making energy-efficient solutions more accessible and affordable. Our mission is to redefine the future of energy use, driving measurable change and innovation in the industry.

Taronga Conservation Society Australia, NSW

Taronga runs 60 conservation projects, two Zoos and wildlife hospitals (with 5,000 animals in residence) five accommodation sites and a world-class Institute of Science & Learning, and everything’s focused on conservation, education and sustainability. The sustainability journey is ongoing, however the achievements so far have been globally significant, with Taronga co-leading a De-carbonisation Guide for 1,300 Zoos around the world. That journey includes becoming the first NSW Zoos to be 100% renewable energy powered, taking steps to save 40 megalitres every year and reaching a 35-50% reduction in total carbon emissions in 2022/23. The Institute of Science and Learning achieved the highest possible Green Star rating, while a partnership with Plasmar turned 3,364kgs soft and 60kgs hard ‘problem plastics’ into agricultural products, creating a circular economy. Taronga’s commitment is enshrined in its vision ‘To Secure a Shared Future for Wildlife and People’.

Finalists:

I'm Plastic Free, QLD

How many people know that non toxic plastic alternatives exist? Many would like to be part of the solution but are overwhelmed or don’t have time to do the research... I’m Plastic Free helps eco-and health-conscious consumers find non toxic plastic alternatives for everyday items, and reduce their microplastic exposure risks. Whether you’re looking for bedding and clothing made of natural fibres, non-toxic cookware, refillable soap, compostable underwear, or something else entirely, I’m Plastic Free makes it quick and easy to swap out plastic for more sustainable options. Over 100 blog articles promote products that are circular, low-carbon, zero-waste, or plastic-free. All articles are linked to studies published in peer-reviewed journals. The platform reaches a global audience, currently generating over half a million organic page views annually, with rapid growth continuing.

Marinova Pty Ltd, TAS

Marinova is a Tasmanian biotechnology company dedicated to the development and production of high purity seaweed extracts for the betterment of human health. The company specialises in the research, development and manufacture of fucoidan compounds – highly bioactive polysaccharides derived from select species of brown seaweed. Marinova’s reputation as the global leader in its field is built on the unrivalled quality and efficacy of its bioactive fucoidan extracts and more than two decades of rigorous scientific investigation. Marinova is home to the award-winning Maritech® organic fucoidan range, an exclusive portfolio of novel marine extracts. Sustainably sourced and clinically validated, Maritech® organic fucoidans are sought after by some of the world's most trusted healthcare brands. They are premium ingredients included in market-leading nutritional supplements, functional foods and beverages, skincare formulations and animal health products.

Ocean Decade Australia, NSW

Imagine a world where 73% of the surface is covered by water, yet we call that world "Earth". This striking irony underscores the profound significance and challenge of our Ocean – a vast, dynamic ecosystem that is more than a simple backdrop to human existence.
At the heart of a sustainable ocean future lies the power of collaboration and leadership. Ocean Decade Australia exists to connect people and convene constructive and inclusive conversations across government, business, research and civil society to drive positive change on the issues that matter most to the health and wealth of Australia’s ocean estate, ocean users and a thriving Blue Economy. Ocean Decade Australia, enables the power of collective leadership to drive meaningful progress in the sustainable stewardship of our oceans.

Finalists:

Community Power Agency - Haystacks Solar Garden, NSW

Haystacks Solar Garden is Australia’s first large-scale solar garden, providing anyone who is locked-out of rooftop solar with the opportunity to participate in (and benefit from) the transition to renewable energy. Launched in April 2024, the project is housed within the 1.5MW Grong Grong Solar Farm in NSW Riverina. Participants purchase a solar ‘plot’ and then receive credits on their electricity bills, enabling them to benefit from solar power without needing to own a sunny, suitable roof. The project, developed by Community Power Agency, Pingala, and Komo Energy, offers a new, innovative way of addressing energy inequity, whilst also taking action on climate change and contributing to a renewable energy future. By generating 3,700 MWh annually, it powers up to 700 households and reduces CO2 emissions by approximately 2,700 tonnes each year. Managed by Haystacks Solar Garden Cooperative, it ensures democratic decision-making and robust community engagement, setting a standard for future solar gardens in Australia. Haystacks Solar Garden demonstrates how innovative, community-driven solutions can create a more inclusive and sustainable energy system.

Moonee Valley City Council: ‘One, Two, Tree’ Campaign, VIC

Western Melbourne has the lowest level of tree canopy cover in Melbourne. With limited public space available, tree planting on private property is necessary to achieve a desirable canopy cover and to facilitate cooler, healthier and more liveable neighbourhoods. 'One, Two, Tree’ is a unique council-run media campaign, led by Moonee Valley City Council and funded by the Victorian Government’s Metropolitan Partnerships Development Fund. The project brought together nine councils from the Greening The West alliance. ’One, Two, Tree’ aims to educates the community on the benefits of trees, addresses barriers to tree planting and then provides direction on ideal trees to plant, as well as the best way to plant them. The campaign balanced academic best practice with resources that are accessible for a diverse audience. ‘One, Two, Tree’ was widely shared across all platforms and had a reach of more than a quarter of a million people.

Plastic Free Foundation Ltd, WA

Plastic Free July, the world’s largest plastic action campaign, is a beacon of hope and innovation in the fight against plastic pollution. This campaign empowers individuals to adopt sustainable habits, making it easy to reduce plastic waste while being part of a global movement. Rather than dealing with plastic waste, Plastic Free July helps prevent the problem at the source, inspiring people to take small steps to cut single-use plastics each day. In 2024, the campaign inspired over 174 million people worldwide, preventing 2,900 million kgs of waste (including 390 million kgs of plastic). These achievements surpass the impact of the world’s largest cleanup initiatives, saving resources, reducing our eco-footprint and creating a low waste society. With plastic pollution in our bodies and altering the Earth system, Plastic Free July’s ability to drive measurable change through creative marketing strategies inspires hope for a sustainable future.

Finalists:

Bridge Housing - Sustainability Framework, NSW

Bridge Housing is a community housing provider committed to driving system change that enhances environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors across the housing sector. Their Sustainability Framework guides all operations and strategic planning with a focus on advocacy, innovation, and transparency. With a vision to create a sustainable future for both the organisation and for the communities it serves, the Sustainability Framework addresses the significant challenges faced by community housing residents. People in social and affordable housing, on low-moderate household incomes are vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and can least afford interventions. Bridge Housing aligns its Sustainability Framework with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and integrates sustainability into every facet of operations across three main pillars: Environmental, Social, and Governance.

Frank Wild, VIC

Frank Wild is a sustainable events agency that is reshaping the Australian event industry. In an industry often defined by its significant environmental footprint, they deliver high-impact experiences that leave a lasting impression on people, not the planet. Frank Wild is setting a new benchmark for ethical and sustainable event production without compromising client expectations or creative impact. Through their holistic sustainability processes, every project is carefully assessed, prioritising circular design and sustainable material selection while meticulously managing resources. This approach enables Frank Wild to reduce carbon emissions, maximise recycling and minimise landfill waste. Tracking environmental impact in the events industry is notoriously complex, but to support their mission, Frank Wild has created a custom carbon calculator. The calculator delivers precise, activity-based emissions data across all event aspects and received third-party verification in 2024. This cements their credibility to drive industry-wide emission reductions and reinforces their leadership in sustainable events.

Hesperia, WA

Hesperia is committed to building a sustainable future. We use our resources—business acumen, investments, expertise, and imagination—to create a positive and lasting impact. Recognising the environmental and social impacts of property development, including land use, carbon emissions, and resource consumption, we adopt practices that exceed regulatory requirements, aiming to reduce negative impacts and enhance positive contributions. Our Project Sustainability Process provides a framework for implementing our Sustainability Strategy through actionable measures. This ensures consistent and measurable sustainability outcomes across all projects, aligned with our core principles. Hesperia’s commitment to collaboration and continuous improvement is demonstrated through our annual Sustainability Performance Report, which tracks progress against ESG targets and gathers stakeholder feedback. This input guides our practices, ensuring they meet the communities' needs.

TWOOBS, VIC

TWOOBS is on a mission to lighten fashion's impact on the planet, one pair of shoes at a time. The brand creates comfortable, accessible & cool footwear designed for longevity & durability, crafted from better materials like recycled plastics & carbon-absorbing sugarcane. They're cruelty-free, carbon offset, & recycled by TWOOBS when you're done. Since an environmentally-focussed pivot in 2020, the brand has cemented itself as a leader in sustainable footwear. Their innovative products & sustainably-minded approach to doing business is impressing industry, peers, & customers, with TWOOBS’ continued increase in brand awareness, social media following & media attention. With a whole business approach to sustainability, TWOOBS apply their sustainable thinking to their entire business model from workplace conditions through to supply chain, stock management & customer experiences.

Finalists:

Intrepid Travel, VIC

Intrepid Travel is a certified B Corporation with the mission to create positive change through the joy of travel. With over 30 destination management companies, it operates small group adventures in 114 countries across all seven continents. Intrepid trips are designed for customers to truly experience local culture and engage with communities, both close to home and further afield. Through its supplier measurement and diversity programs, Intrepid is creating positive local impact through its partnerships with female, First Nations and indigenous, and minority-owned businesses. On its Women’s Expeditions, female travellers can also participate in immersive local experiences for women that are ordinarily off limits on other itineraries. These trips aim to provide employment opportunities and support for women-owned businesses, while breaking down barriers and fostering discussion between travellers and hosts. With an ambitious growth strategy, Intrepid is taking a holistic approach to ensure responsible procurement is embedded across the business to create positive local impact in the destinations it which it operates.

JBS Australia - Farm Assurance, VIC

The JBS Farm Assurance program, launched by JBS Australia in 2011, is a pioneering initiative that establishes the highest standards in food safety, quality, animal welfare, and traceability in livestock production. Accredited to global standards ISO17065 and rigorously audited by BVAQ, the program ensures transparency and sustainability from pasture to plate. Over the past two years, JBS Farm Assurance has elevated its commitment to sustainable and regenerative farming practices, enhancing consumer confidence. The program integrates AI technology for unprecedented supply chain transparency, allowing customers to trace premium beef back to its farm of origin through to its final destination. With a comprehensive approach to carbon management, regenerative agriculture, and community engagement, the program is set apart as an industry leader. JBS Farm Assurance aims to leave a lasting legacy by setting a benchmark for sustainable farming practices, fostering greater transparency and trust in the food supply chain.

Princess Polly, QLD

Princess Polly’s Ethical Sourcing Program represents a transformative approach to responsible procurement in the fashion industry. Guided by their Five A’s—Aligning, Assessing, Addressing, Awareness, and Accountability—they embed transparency, collaboration, and sustainability into every aspect of their supply chain. Their innovative Preferred Factory Program (PFP) incentivises factories to excel through prioritised orders, growth opportunities, and sourcing pilot programs, fostering long-term partnerships that align ethical practices with operational success. By leveraging tools like worker sentiment surveys, tailored training resources, and on-the-ground coaching, Princess Polly empowers suppliers to implement meaningful improvements and address root causes of systemic challenges. Key milestones include hosting their first Supply Chain Conference, where supplier insights guided the creation of customised grievance pathways launching in 2025. With 91% of factories achieving Silver or Gold ratings and over 50% of Tier 3 inputs traced, Princess Polly is setting a new benchmark for ethical sourcing—ensuring progress that benefits workers, suppliers, and the environment.

South West Gateway Alliance - The Wilman Wadandi Highway (Bunbury Outer Ring Road Project), WA

The Wilman Wadandi Highway (the Bunbury Outer Ring Road project), delivered by the South West Gateway Alliance in partnership with Main Roads Western Australia and the Office of Major Infrastructure Delivery, is creating a 27-kilometre highway in the South-West of Western Australia. The project set ambitious social procurement targets, including $450 million for local businesses, $30 million for Aboriginal businesses, and 10% of the workforce from Aboriginal and previously unemployed individuals.
Challenges like limited regional capacity, workforce shortages, and low unemployment were addressed through innovative strategies such as the Local Business Advisory Group and the award winning Yaka Dandjoo Sustainable Employment Program. These initiatives facilitated local business engagement, skills development, and inclusive employment pathways.
As of 31 October 2024, the project surpassed targets with $612.1 million committed to be spent locally and $57.1 million committed with Aboriginal businesses. Tailored procurement approaches and stakeholder engagement have driven lasting benefits, fostering a resilient regional economy and creating sustainable opportunities.

Technology for Impact Award

Finalists:

Kosciuszko Thredbo Pty Ltd - Thredbo Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation, NSW

Kosciuszko Thredbo Pty Ltd (Thredbo) is a Gold-level EarthCheck Sustainable Destination with a mission to integrate sustainability into all its operations including on-mountain and municipal services it provides in the Village. With its operations in the unique and sensitive alpine environment, which is expected to receive reduced snow and precipitation and increased temperatures due to climate change, Thredbo takes a holistic approach to climate change mitigation and adaptation.

Polperro Dolphin Swims, VIC

As Australia's first wild dolphin and seal swim provider, Polperro Dolphin Swims has four decades of experience providing ecotourism that is 'simply the best.' Their tours showcase the beauty of Port Phillip Bay, delve into the area's rich history, and offer once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters. Sustainability isn't a tick in a box for them; it's interwoven into every aspect of their identity. Polperro seeks to awaken a need to know and care about the long-term protection of the bay and its unique wildlife. Their multifaceted approach includes remarkable wildlife tours, teaching resources, tour briefings, fieldwork activities, citizen science opportunities and partnerships. They operate under their physical and legal capacity to ensure the highest environmental and customer care level. Polperro set out to leave the bay a better place than they found it. They demonstrate how tourism can be a force for good. Always family-owned and operated, Polperro is one small family making a big difference.

Taronga Conservation Society Australia, NSW

Taronga runs 60 conservation projects, two zoos and wildlife hospitals (with 5,000 animals in residence) five accommodation sites and a world-class Institute of Science & Learning, and everything’s focused on conservation, education and sustainability. The scale of influence is globally significant, with the sustainability journey helping to inform a De-carbonisation Guide for 1,300 zoos around the world, while over 1.8 million guests visited last year, 118,000 students enjoyed educational programs including a Bachelor of Science delivered to 3,240 students, and 1.2 million engaged with digital lessons. The Amphibian & Reptile Conservation Centre (ARC) opened in 2024, extending the work that saved six species from extinction, while Platypus HQ was also launched, and Taronga become the first zoos in NSW to be 100% renewable powered. Taronga’s commitment is enshrined in its vision ‘To Secure a Shared Future for Wildlife and People’, and it’s set to continue for another century, at least.

Wild Adventures Melbourne (WAM), VIC

Wild Adventures Melbourne (WAM) has designed and delivered a blueprint for how all tour operators in Australia can operate to the highest standards of environmental and social performance in a multi faceted approach on a micro budget that can be easily adopted, is financially viable, and good for business. Micro and small businesses make up the vast majority of tourism businesses in Australia, so collectively the impact can be monumental.
As a small-business on a micro-budget, WAM has built a business model to have a positive impact on people and planet, finding solutions despite budget and resource constraints. The foundations of WAM are built to have a positive environmental and social impact, whilst delivering exceptional eco-adventure tours to our guests. WAM connects the dots and takes positive actions that link to a chain of other positive actions, thus having an even greater impact on the environment and communities.