Sustainable Business Awards

This award recognises businesses and initiatives that demonstrate efforts in reducing waste generation, promoting recycling, and implementing solutions for sustainable waste management practices. Businesses entering this category must showcase their implementation strategies and measurable results in minimising waste and resource recovery. Entries may encompass accomplishments in recycling and reprocessing systems, including mechanical and organic (composting) recycling methods, as well as implementing sustainable packaging solutions.

Finalists

Purple Pear Pallets

At Purple Pear Pallets, sustainability is at the heart of our business. We're often asked, "What is the life expectancy of a timber pallet?" While some say three years or five usage cycles, a repaired pallet's life is almost unlimited. Nearly every damaged part can be replaced, with cost being the only fundamental constraint. Even at the end of its primary use, parts can often be salvaged and reused. Repairing a pallet can cost as little as 25% of buying a new one - saving money and reducing strain on natural resources. Our commitment to restore and reuse reflects our belief in the circular economy as a more sustainable alternative to the traditional linear model.

UGT International

UGT International is a second-generation family business based in Melbourne, proudly evolving from a traditional homewares importer into a leading product developer, brand builder, and sourcing partner for major Australian retailers. Committed to sustainability, we design and deliver innovative products with a focus on using renewable materials and eco-friendly solutions. At UGT, we prioritise doing what's right—for our customers, our partners, and the planet—driving positive impact and setting a standard that's hard to match.

Armstrong Flooring

Armstrong Flooring has been a leader in resilient flooring in Australia for over 50 years, proudly standing as Australia's only commercial sheet vinyl flooring manufacturer. Based in Braeside, Victoria, we are committed to supporting local industry while delivering high-performance flooring solutions that are healthy, responsible, positive, and circular. Our focus on product stewardship and extended producer responsibility drives our commitment to responsible lifecycle management.

As Australia transitions to a circular economy, Armstrong Flooring embraces sustainability across all operations. We are dedicated to reducing our environmental footprint and creating a future where circular manufacturing is a cornerstone of the Australian manufacturing landscape. By leading with example, we make mindful choices today to build a healthier, greener tomorrow.

The Coffee Chief

The Coffee Chief is a solar-powered mobile coffee business based in Melbourne, serving specialty coffee with a side of heart, humour, and sustainability. We operate out of a self-built horse float trailer, fully powered by batteries charged from rooftop solar at my home. Our mission is simple: to create community through coffee while minimising our environmental impact. From compostable cups and repurposed waste to keep cup culture and donated coffee grounds, sustainability is embedded in our day-to-day. More than just a caffeine stop, The Coffee Chief is a moving example of how small businesses can lead with purpose, creativity, and good energy - literally.

Sustainable Canvas

Sustainable Canvas is Australia's first canvas supplier offering artists a sustainable alternative with canvases made from 100% recycled plastic. Our palettes are constructed from recycled HDPE, and our painting pots are crafted from 100% recycled milk lids, ensuring plastic waste is repurposed instead of ending up in landfills.

With every purchase, customers can support one of three Australian charities (focusing on aiding women in need and coral restoration on the Great Barrier Reef).

We prioritise supporting local artists through complimentary products in exchange for content, fostering growth and recognition. Additionally, we offer a circular lifecycle for our products, allowing customers to return palettes and pots for recycling. Sustainable Canvas empowers artists to make a positive environmental and social impact, redefining what it means to create art in Australia while promoting innovation and responsibility.

This award recognises businesses that excel in supporting diversity and inclusion through workplace initiatives and/or programs. These businesses demonstrate the values and benefits of an inclusive workplace and work to achieve a more inclusive environment for staff and customers. Businesses nominated for this award have taken action to reduce barriers, enhance participation and ensure information, services and facilities are accessible and inclusive to everyone in our community. Workplace diversity and inclusion may refer to gender, age, LGBTQIA+, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD), people with a disability and First Nations engagement.

Finalists

Party Higher

Party Higher is Australia's leading wireless headphone service provider, transforming conferences, expos, corporate and community events, festivals and birthdays into unforgettable, interactive, inclusive experiences. We specialise in delivering innovative solutions like silent conferencing, silent team-building activities, silent yoga and silent discos, allowing people with hearing aids, cochlear implants and neurodivergence to feel included. Our unique, all-inclusive packages also offer accessibility-focused experiences, including the world-first Feel the Beat, utilising haptic technology for d/Deaf participants and sensory-friendly chill zones for neurodiverse attendees. Our goal is to make events more inclusive and accessible for all abilities.

LiveSafe Education

LiveSafe Education is a family-owned Social Enterprise that provides personal safety education and self-defence training to empower people with practical skills to keep themselves safe from person-on-person violence. We take a holistic approach to personal safety, starting with strategies for avoiding dangerous environments, preventing potential threats, and, when necessary, using legal and effective self-defence techniques to facilitate a safe escape. Training always includes de-escalation skills, helping students safely manage and resolve potentially volatile situations.

Over 50? So What!

Over 50? So What! is a positive ageing television show that screens three times a week across Victoria and South Australia and streaming services. We showcase information on life stages, health, fitness, and inspiration to people aged 50-70+ to help Australians transition to retirement.

We include culturally diverse groups, including LGBTQIA+ people, and every show includes fitness, showing a chair option for those with less mobility. We have also included inspirational older Australians up to the age of 100.

Our primary production and camera crew are all over the age of 55 (and up to 81!). We also provide work experience for younger people wanting to have a career in television and media.

Kingston Pickleball Centre

Kingston Pickleball Centre is a community-driven hub dedicated to promoting pickleball as an inclusive, accessible, and sustainable sport for all ages and abilities. Aligned with Pickleball Australia and committed to national coaching standards, we offer professional training, social play, and programs that support diversity—such as Paddle Pups for preschoolers, ASD/ADHD-friendly sessions, and LGBTQIA+ and seniors' social hits. Our approach fosters physical and mental well-being, helping reduce social isolation through sport. Led by professional player and coach Tina Bianchi and mental health advocate Sandy Lutersz, Kingston Pickleball Centre champions active lifestyles, community connection, and the long-term growth of pickleball in Australia.

Oscar's Hangout

Oscar's Cafe is a café and catering company based in the heritage-listed Tote building at the old Epsom racetrack in Mordialloc. Serving breakfast, lunch, and catering across Kingston, we're a community-driven business committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity in hospitality.

We proudly employ individuals with neurodivergence and intellectual disability, adapting roles and environments to support their success. Our staff are trained to support all team members and customers with respect and care.

Through a strong partnership with Parkdale Secondary College, we teach specialist food science classes and offer real-world experience by having students run our restaurant for the night - helping inspire the next generation of hospitality professionals.

Seasoul Sauna

Seasoul Sauna, located at Aspendale Beach, is a community-focused small business that provides an outdoor sauna and bathing experience aimed at enhancing mental health and fostering connections. Launched in 2024, we offer special sessions for various groups, including women, families, and free sessions for local organizations. Our inclusive approach features tailored offerings such as female-only, male-only, and sessions for kids and older adults.

Guided by trained team members, each session aims to create a welcoming environment, helping newcomers feel comfortable with sauna bathing. This has led many participants to incorporate sauna therapy into their wellness routines. Additionally, Seasoul Sauna prioritizes sustainability by using energy-efficient HUUM heating systems and eco-friendly products. With a 200% increase in session uptake and numerous positive testimonials, we are proud to offer a space where individuals can connect, share, and enhance their wellbeing.

This award recognises outstanding achievements by small to medium businesses that integrate environmental and/or social sustainability principles and practices into their business activities and policies. Examples include ethical sourcing, community engagement, circularity and biodiversity.

Finalists

Tara Treasures

Tara Treasures is an Australian family business founded in 2009, focusing on ethical toy production. With over $5.5 million in annual revenue, they create handcrafted felt toys that average $20 each. The company supports more than 350 women artisans in Nepal, providing meaningful jobs and preserving traditional crafts.

They prioritise sustainability by using natural materials, reducing plastic packaging by 85%, and cutting warehouse electricity use by 30%. Tara Treasures has also contributed over $65,000 to Fair Trade initiatives. Known for collaborations with brands like The Wiggles and May Gibbs, they continue to expand their influence in early education. Tara Treasures aims to empower communities and promote conscious consumerism, proving that small businesses can drive global change.

Edwin Fox Furniture

Edwin is a multidisciplinary artisan and skilled restorer with a background in Fine Art, holding a First Class BA in Graphic Communication and an NVQ in traditional upholstery. Originally from Bristol, UK, creativity has always shaped his life and career, and he now focuses on restoring and selling furniture and lighting through his independent business in Dingley Village, Melbourne.

Passionate about sustainability, Edwin's work celebrates the value of preserving well-crafted objects and reducing waste. He regularly runs educational workshops, has featured in NGV's Melbourne Design Week for four years, and collaborates with groups like the Robin Boyd Foundation and Beaumaris Modern.

With the motto "I love art & hate waste," Edwin is building a community around the importance of repair, reuse, and timeless design.

Dutch Cargo Bike

Dutch Cargo Bike is Australia's leading specialist in electric cargo bikes.

We were founded to help families, educators, and service providers shift away from car dependency - making everyday trips more sustainable, active, and joyful. Our range includes family bikes, disability-accessible trikes, and e-bike fleets for councils and schools.

We offer flexible options like subscriptions, trials, and salary sacrifice leasing to remove cost barriers. We also run community workshops, write educational resources, and partner with local government to promote active transport. Our purpose-driven model sets us apart: we don't just sell bikes—we help people change how they move.

WE-EF Lighting Pty Ltd

We're a leader in high-performance exterior lighting, with over 30 years of local experience and a 75-year global heritage. In 2025, we opened our Green Star-targeted Braeside headquarters, purpose-built to showcase sustainable design, lean manufacturing, and local assembly of our German-made luminaires - crafted from over 90% recycled aluminium.

Our facility features a 99kW solar system, rainwater harvesting, EV charging, and smart lighting controls. Our LED systems exceed national energy standards, and our packaging is now plastic-free, using compostable materials and reused casting boxes to reduce waste.

At the core of our facility is The Lightbox, a unique indoor simulation space where clients experience wildlife-sensitive and dark-sky compliant lighting. WE-EF is more than a lighting manufacturer - we're a sustainability-driven solutions partner.

Edithvale Community Greengrocer

Edigrocer is a local greengrocer working for a sustainable future for our local families and farmers.

Nine years ago, we packed our first-ever veggie boxes, born from the simple idea of bringing back a mix of local and organic veggies directly from local farms (both old-school and young regenerative growers) and sharing them with our community. Our curated mixed seasonal organic local boxes are a mainstay of our small business - we deliver 150 boxes weekly to families in Edithvale, Aspendale, Chelsea & Bonbeach.

Thanks to a supportive community, Edigrocer has grown into a local food hub filled with wholesome pantry staples and nutritionally dense produce with a low-waste food vision that includes self-serve bulk tubs to reduce packaging.

This award celebrates organisations who are working towards net zero through improving efficiency, renewable energy production and carbon emission reduction. This can be through implementing innovative strategies, technologies, policy changes and supply chain transparency.

Finalists

Armstrong Flooring

Armstrong Flooring has been a leader in resilient flooring in Australia for over 50 years, proudly standing as Australia's only commercial sheet vinyl flooring manufacturer. Based in Braeside, Victoria, we are committed to supporting local industry while delivering high-performance flooring solutions that are healthy, responsible, positive, and circular. Our focus on product stewardship and extended producer responsibility drives our commitment to responsible lifecycle management.

As Australia transitions to a circular economy, Armstrong Flooring embraces sustainability across all operations. We are dedicated to reducing our environmental footprint and creating a future where circular manufacturing is a cornerstone of the Australian manufacturing landscape. By leading with example, we make mindful choices today to build a healthier, greener tomorrow.

Ego Pharmaceuticals

The Science Of Healthy Skin

Proudly Australian-owned, Ego Pharmaceuticals has led the way in developing, manufacturing and marketing innovative skincare products since our inception in 1953. We exist for people who want healthy skin and are proud to be specialists in dermatological skincare backed by science.

Our products are made in Australia for the people of the world, and are underpinned by Ego's heritage and integrity. That's why millions of people trust Ego to help care for their skin every day.

Dutch Cargo Bike

Dutch Cargo Bike is Australia's leading specialist in electric cargo bikes.

We were founded to help families, educators, and service providers shift away from car dependency - making everyday trips more sustainable, active, and joyful. Our range includes family bikes, disability-accessible trikes, and e-bike fleets for councils and schools.

We offer flexible options like subscriptions, trials, and salary sacrifice leasing to remove cost barriers. We also run community workshops, write educational resources, and partner with local government to promote active transport. Our purpose-driven model sets us apart: we don't just sell bikes—we help people change how they move.

ZECO Energy

ZECO Energy has its finger on the pulse across three core areas of the energy transition, and it's the way these areas feed into each other that serves our mission: to make renewable energy accessible to all.

We're helping Australians electrify their homes with solar, batteries and EV charging solutions designed for real-life use. Our national technical services team partners with some of the world's leading energy brands to underpin their customer trust across the market. Through our in-house energy technology arm, we're developing Australian-made tech like Marshall, a platform solving the complexities of the solar industry.

This combination of hands-on delivery, behind-the-scenes expertise, and future-focused product development gives ZECO a unique perspective on the energy ecosystem. We're not just responding to the energy transition; We're shaping it.

WE-EF Lighting Pty Ltd

We're a leader in high-performance exterior lighting, with over 30 years of local experience and a 75-year global heritage. In 2025, we opened our Green Star-targeted Braeside headquarters, purpose-built to showcase sustainable design, lean manufacturing, and local assembly of our German-made luminaires - crafted from over 90% recycled aluminium.

Our facility features a 99kW solar system, rainwater harvesting, EV charging, and smart lighting controls. Our LED systems exceed national energy standards, and our packaging is now plastic-free, using compostable materials and reused casting boxes to reduce waste.

At the core of our facility is The Lightbox, a unique indoor simulation space where clients experience wildlife-sensitive and dark-sky compliant lighting. WE-EF is more than a lighting manufacturer - we're a sustainability-driven solutions partner.

This award celebrates businesses who develop innovative products and technologies that have the potential of significantly addressing climate change mitigation, adaptation or resilience. Examples include solar panel production, energy storage solutions, water conservation and green building technologies, amongst many more. Start-ups are welcome to enter this category if they have preliminary results.

Finalists

e2 environments

e2 environments was founded by a team with decades of experience and a shared passion for improving outcomes in the building industry. Frustrated by the slow adoption of better standards, inflated costs for high-performance systems, and a reliance on imports, they set out to do things differently. Starting with the Systems division, e2 quickly expanded into Manufacture and Develop, driven by strong partnerships and a mission to create safe, healthy, and sustainable environments. Based in Victoria, our growth strategy focuses on building a national network of local businesses to support Australian industry and deliver smarter, more efficient project outcomes.

ZECO Energy

ZECO Energy has its finger on the pulse across three core areas of the energy transition, and it's the way these areas feed into each other that serves our mission: to make renewable energy accessible to all.

We're helping Australians electrify their homes with solar, batteries and EV charging solutions designed for real-life use. Our national technical services team partners with some of the world's leading energy brands to underpin their customer trust across the market. Through our in-house energy technology arm, we're developing Australian-made tech like Marshall, a platform solving the complexities of the solar industry.

This combination of hands-on delivery, behind-the-scenes expertise, and future-focused product development gives ZECO a unique perspective on the energy ecosystem. We're not just responding to the energy transition; We're shaping it.

WE-EF Lighting Pty Ltd

We're a leader in high-performance exterior lighting, with over 30 years of local experience and a 75-year global heritage. In 2025, we opened our Green Star-targeted Braeside headquarters, purpose-built to showcase sustainable design, lean manufacturing, and local assembly of our German-made luminaires - crafted from over 90% recycled aluminium.

Our facility features a 99kW solar system, rainwater harvesting, EV charging, and smart lighting controls. Our LED systems exceed national energy standards, and our packaging is now plastic-free, using compostable materials and reused casting boxes to reduce waste.

At the core of our facility is The Lightbox, a unique indoor simulation space where clients experience wildlife-sensitive and dark-sky compliant lighting. WE-EF is more than a lighting manufacturer - we're a sustainability-driven solutions partner.

This award recognises young changemakers and innovators (under 35 years old) who have devised forward-thinking solutions that align with sustainable strategies and outcomes. These individuals can have their own business or initiative or be working for an employer on an initiative they have implemented in the last 2 years. Showcase how your passion and hard work have contributed towards progressing environmental and/or social sustainability.

Finalists

Shannon Marmion – Bayside Rack Exchange

Shannon, a local Kingston woman, opened Bayside Rack Exchange in Cheltenham in 2024, a rent-a-rack shop dedicated to sustainability.

This innovative space allows women to rent racks to sell their preloved clothing and accessories, promoting a circular economy and reducing textile waste. Shannon’s goal is to create a clean, inviting environment where women feel encouraged to shop for second-hand items rather than new ones.

Since opening, Bayside Rack Exchange has sold 6,901 pieces of clothing, keeping them out of landfills while providing financial support to local women. With a focus on inclusivity, the shop accepts all brands and sizes, and Shannon manages all aspects for sellers, making the process seamless.

Looking ahead, she aims to expand her business into a franchise and increase awareness of the benefits of shopping recycled fashion through enhanced promotion.

Janith Habaraduwa Pillage – Armstrong Flooring

Janith is a Mechanical Engineer at Armstrong Flooring, Australia's only vinyl resilient sheet flooring manufacturer. Since 2023, Janith has focused on enhancing sustainability through targeted initiatives.

Leading two key projects to improve our environmental practices. He replaced the steam-based system on our Consol Line Embossing process with an electric atmospheric water heater, achieving an annual gas saving of 7,974 GJ and significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Janith also introduced a shredding and granulation system to recycle vinyl sheet rework rolls into reusable materials, diverting waste from landfill and enhancing workplace safety and product consistency.

These projects underscore Janith's commitment to driving energy efficiency and circularity within manufacturing. The results not only deliver environmental benefits but also establish a foundation for a broader sustainability roadmap at Armstrong Flooring, promoting a culture of sustainability in our operations.

Rehaan Salil, Aneka Subramanian , Sricharan Karthikeyan, Vishnu Easwar – STEM Incubators

These young changemakers at STEM Incubators have developed a transformative Digital Experience Platform aimed at enhancing Kingston’s tourism ecosystem. This innovative solution connects visitors with local businesses and promotes sustainable tourism practices while addressing key challenges such as limited visitor engagement and a lack of personalised experiences.

The platform features personalised recommendations, real-time business analytics, and a points-based rewards system that incentivises eco-friendly choices. User testing revealed that over 80% of participants valued the sustainability-focused features, and the platform has the potential to reduce visitor-related carbon emissions by 15%.

With a working prototype and upcoming pitches to Microsoft, as well as collaboration with Robotics Australia, the initiative demonstrates significant potential for economic growth and community engagement across Kingston's 22 suburbs.

By fostering connections among visitors, businesses, and local resources, STEM Incubators is paving the way for a sustainable tourism model that benefits both the environment and the local economy.

Any business with an initiative that meets the award Eligibility Criteria is welcome to submit a nomination. This includes businesses of all sizes, educational organisations, social enterprises and not-for-profits.

Any individual (under 35 years old and who lives, work or studies within the City of Kingston) can be nominated for Young Changemakers and Innovators category with an initiative that meets the award eligibility criteria.

Nominating your business or yourself as an individual is done through an online form.

Along with general details about your business, the form will require responses to four key questions about your initiative:

• background and motivation
• approach and implementation
• results
• influence.

You will also be asked to provide a short description (max 150 words) for promotional purposes and a logo image.

If you have any questions or need help with your nomination, Kingston's Business team can be contacted at business@kingston.vic.gov.au or on 1300 653 356

Yes.

Yes. A business can be nominated for one or more categories. Each category selected must be for a different initiative. If a business wins a particular category, they will be ineligible to win in another category.

An initiative is a specific project, product, program, system, mechanism, mindset or process implemented that has resulted in sustainable business practices.

The award winners will receive a trophy and certificate and numerous opportunities to market their businesses and initiatives.

Yes. Businesses of all sizes are eligible. Our nomination process is fair, transparent and independent of the business size.

The awards are free to enter.

2024

See the 2024 media release for more information on the winners.

2023

See the 2023 media release for more information on the winners.