If perusing fine Indian fabrics is your idea of a good time, we suggest you head on over to Sapling Textiles’ website, where you’ll find all kinds of cottons, linens and regenerated-plant fabrics. Based in Maleny, Qld, the family business also deals in hand-dyed yarns and exquisite trims, plus cotton clothing for men and women, and the most magnificent block-printed quilts and tablecloths.

Nobody likes an omelette that sticks to the pan, but even more concerning is using a frying pan that not only clings to your food but also leaches harmful forever chemicals. GreenPan solves all of this with Thermolon™, the original healthy ceramic non-stick coating, which is free of PFAS, PFOA, lead and cadmium. Bonus: GreenPan cookware also happens to look rather lovely on the stovetop.

The Waverley Wrap Wrashie® is a wrap swim top designed to bring a splash of style and sustainability to sun safety. Winner of an Australian Good Design Award for its unique design, the Wrashie comes in an inclusive size range from 6-24 and is made ethically in Australia from recycled nylon (from discarded fishing nets and carpets). Waverley has sustainable sun safety all wrapped up!

Meaning “hello Country” in the Taungurung language, wawa biik offers unique cultural experiences, giving you the chance to explore significant sites, cruise the tabilk tabilk wetlands, taste bush foods and experience a smoking ceremony performed by Elders. The intimate group tours celebrate the people, places and perspectives at the heart of the Taungurung Nation in central Victoria.

Fancy swishing around the seaside with an upcycled-saree cover-up? With matching silk pants, for those post-swim cocktails? Sunshine Coast label Rosa Paloma can help you realise your bougiest dreams with its beautiful resortware collection, which also includes breezy linen sets made from deadstock fabric. These treasures are made in very small batches – so we suggest you get browsing asap.

Say no to brassy tones with the salon-tested Soft Violet Toning Shampoo Bar by Zerocare Sustainable Haircare. This deluxe brightening bar works to balance warm shades of blonde, brunette, grey and silver, packing your locks with essential oils and organic nut butters to leave you feeling lush. Bonus: your cruelty-free, vegan-friendly travel companion offers a zero-waste lather for up to 80 washes!

Raise your glass to the Reschkes, a family passionate about handcrafting exceptional small-batch wines while leaving the land in a better place than they found it. Self-described as ‘eco-obsessed’, their Coonawarra winery is at the forefront of organic viticulture with its extensive range of vegan-friendly, low-sulphur, Australian Certified Organic drops. Free shipping on purchases of six or more bottles! PLUS! Just for Peppermint readers, use the code SUMMERMINT at checkout for 15% off (excludes special offers, gift card and Black Friday range).

If you are interested in dismantling the patriarchy, then Yonitown has the knickers for you – and the tees, hats and wall art. The label’s ethically produced Feminism All Welcome collection celebrates womanhood, feminine energy and the sanctity of the womb, inviting important conversations via organically grown, plant-based materials and deadstock fabrics.

Meet Pulu, the little chook who lends his charm to Littlory Designs’ stationery, stickers, brooches, key rings, totes and prints. He’s the creation of Hong Kong-born digital artist Cindy, who draws inspiration from her home town and Melbourne, where she now lives. Pulu’s a simple guy: he just wants to bring fun and joy to the world. And to that, we say, more Pulu please!

“Always wear earrings; you never know who you’ll bump into.” These wise words come from Schmoock founder Susie – a woman who knows the power of pretty ear danglers. With a background in carpentry, Susie creates her resin wares in Brisbane, sanding each piece for that sea-glass finish. Her packaging is sustainably sourced and offcuts are worked into new designs.

Got stinky socks? Blood stains? A toddler? Bloody Awesome Laundry Stain & Odour Remover – sold at Woolworths in a home-compostable pouch – will handle it. Big on transparency and dirty on palm oil, Downunder Wash Co makes all kinds of nifty products, including Sporty, Australia’s first sports-recovery soap bar, designed to refresh and soothe tired muscles after a workout.

If you fancy dabbling in the dark art of cross-stitch, a kit is the way to go – and Modstitch has some lovely options. Not only do you get quality materials and a beginner-friendly guidebook (posted in sustainable packaging), you also get a gorgeous design based on the work of an Australian artist. Check out Kasey Rainbow’s adorable Kutopia kits – the perfect gift for a crafty mum-to-be!

Sydney makeup artist Celina Jayne Pereira handmakes every formula in the CJP Beauty range. They’re cruelty-free, vegan and inclusive, which means there’s a lipstick, bronzer, blush, highlighter and biodegradable glitter gel for everyone, regardless of age, race or gender. The brand is beloved by dancers and other performers – so you know these products can stand up to a night on the dance floor.

If you want your potluck offering to steal the spotlight, a tomato-stained takeaway container isn’t going to cut it. You want servingware with sustainability cred and pretty colours, like these gems from Put A Lid On It. Each piece is made in Sydney using 100% recycled food-grade plastic. The range includes bowls and platters with fitted lids, plus matching salad servers, in seven delightful shades.

This charming sugar glider is a beautiful example of Laura Luke’s incredibly detailed pencil illustrations. Fascinated by the natural world, Laura has a way of capturing both the detail and personality of her quirky subjects. Her whimsical range includes handmade ceramic mugs, plantable greeting cards, art tiles and limited-edition prints (perfect for walls in need of a little wildlife).

Shake it, baby! These margarita mixes are hand-brewed in small batches in Byron Bay using fresh juice, organic Mexican agave nectar, sea salt, citrus rinds, dried flowers and chillies. Each preservative- and additive-free bottle of these feel-good liquids come with Badass Salts, which are blitzed with recycled botanicals from the brews. Just add tequila to get the party started!

Based in Canberra, jeweller Emma Field creates exquisite earrings, rings and necklaces that tell special stories and hold the memories of a lifetime. She draws inspiration from the graceful lines of architecture and the raw beauty of nature (take a look at her Clam series, inspired by the Great Barrier Reef). Emma also creates bespoke pieces for important moments, including engagements.

The CEO of this company is a wiener dog! And he has something for everyone, from Disney-embellished harnesses to delightful car seat covers, sparkly ID tags, “Dog Mum” caps for the hound-obsessed and matching accessories for pooches and their persons. If you find yourself in Brisbane, be sure to “paws” by the Kedron store, where the sign proclaims: “Cats & Dogs Welcome! Humans Tolerated.”

Fashion that also supports refugee and migrant creatives to gain valuable work and training opportunities? Yes, please! The Social Studio is a not-for-profit social enterprise with 15 years of impact. Students receive accredited and pre-accredited training at no cost, and every cent generated is invested back into their work and training programs. Look good, feel good.

Kate Pitman’s brand, Magenta Threads, epitomises ethical slow fashion. Each piece is designed, printed and handmade to order in Melbourne, using mostly OEKO-TEX or organic fabric. The prints are original creations inspired by Kate’s love of nature and art. For the icing on the cake, Magenta Threads offsets 1 tonne of carbon emissions per month and is ECA-certified. What’s not to love?

Jo Carney designs and makes all the gorgeous things at By Audrey and Grace. And she’s serious about zero-waste fashion. Case in point: this dopamine-boosting box-pleat skirt, produced with organic cotton, compostable inter-facing and corozo buttons (which come from the seeds of a palm tree). Once this skirt has seen you through life’s many seasons, she can be returned to the earth. Nice one!

Lisa created Spiritus Eco Clothing after working for a wholesale fast fashion company and experiencing the industry’s waste problem firsthand. Determined to do something about it, she retrained and launched her label – and we’re so happy she did! Lisa’s designs are inspired by the natural surroundings of the Dandenong Ranges and are intended to be heirloom pieces that withstand the test of time.

Packed with New Zealand natives – like antioxidant-rich Kawakawa Leaf and Mamaku Fern – Hark & Zander’s MiracleFirm Smoothing Serum won over the judges with its line-fighting superpowers. This potent, lightweight treatment promises to lift, firm and plump skin without harsh actives. In fact, every Hark & Zander product is specially formulated for skin that’s easily irritated.

GOLD SERUM

The Lindner family knows socks. In fact, Andrew Lindner hails from 10 generations of sock makers. He knits his wares on vintage machinery, working with his mother, wife and team in Crookwell, NSW. Their merino wool is grown in Australia, with most yarn spun and dyed in Victoria. Check out their unisex merino/hemp Echidna socks, which can be composted once their darning days are done.

GOLD FASHION ACCESSORIES

C+C EDITOR’S CHOICE FASHION ACCESSORIES

Made with body-loving botanicals, Yinn lubricants mix serious skincare with the business of pleasure. Designed to empower women, men and non-binary people to embrace their sexuality, using natural, organic and Australian-made products. Choose from an oil-based blend, made with organic argan and hemp seed, or a water-based lubricant, featuring soothing chamomile and calendula.

GOLD SEXUAL WELLNESS FINALIST SEXUAL WELLNESS

Like bum bags and wide-leg jeans, menstrual cups have come a long way – and Coralcone is leading the charge. These Kiwi-made, reusable period cups feature innovative two-part engineering with a flexible, detachable stem for an ultra-comfy, customisable fit (no scissors needed). Easy to use and planet-friendly, Coralcone is levelling up periods everywhere!

GOLD PERIOD PRODUCT

Motivated by her daughter’s struggles with eczema, founder Amanda turned to essential oils to create her own home and body products. When friends began requesting refills, Forever Natural was born. Today, her range includes the award-winning Pink Grapefruit Lip Balm, as well as face and body scrubs, a surface spray, hand soap and more – all housed in recyclable packaging.

BRONZE ZERO-WASTE BEAUTY

Dry, itchy, red skin? The Nude Alchemist’s Eczema Relief is suitable for even the most sensitive skin. This balm offers a gentle, natural alternative for families seeking relief from skin issues. Founded by aromatherapist Sara, The Nude Alchemist’s range of natural formulations harnesses Mother Nature’s medicine cabinet to create practical products for the whole family.

GOLD SENSITIVE BODY / ECZEMA

If synthetic scents are not your style, take a look at natural fragrance maker Tulita. Every element of the brand’s plant-based, refillable perfumes is carefully considered, from the carbon-positive production in Melbourne to the Ayurvedic botanicals that lie within. The quartz-topped Divya, designed to boost serenity, won over judges with its notes of jasmine and sandalwood.

SILVER NATURAL PERFUME – FLORAL

Designed to “feed” skin with glow-inducing nutrients, Skin Juice was created by a beauty therapist who decided her clients shouldn’t have to choose between natural and performance skincare. The judges loved the refillable Midnight Melt, a night serum/mask that uses enzymes to melt away debris so pores can absorb the product’s hydrating and barrier-boosting actives.

GOLD NIGHT SERUM

Not just lovely to look at, Yogi Peace Club products are made with natural rubber and post-consumer recycled PET plastic and are certified by Global Recycled Standard for sustainability. First Nations twins Britney and Stefanie Noffke, who work under the name Malara Rise, painted the florals that sit atop this latest design, with a percentage of profits going to the artists.

GOLD YOGA SILVER YOGA

Known as the “liquid gold of Morocco”, cold-pressed extra-virgin argan oil has been making bodies feel beautiful (read: exquisitely soft) for centuries. Now, Marrok is giving Australians the hammam experience with a deeply hydrating dry oil for skin, hair and nails. It’s part of an organic, cruelty-free range that’s based on tried-and-trusted bath-house traditions.

BRONZE HAIR TREATMENT

For a brush that cares for your hair – and the planet, too – take a look at the handcrafted, plastic-free, vegan range by Tek Italy, which has been in the brush and comb business since 1977. Finished with linseed oil and carnauba wax, many of Tek’s FSC-certified wooden brushes are entirely biodegradable. The perfectly smooth wooden pins reduce static, massage the scalp and improve circulation!

GOLD ZERO-WASTE BODY

Fun fact: kangaroo teeth never stop growing. Little wonder, then, that Mizzie The Kangaroo knows what to do when teething time rolls around. She’s also got bathtime, play-time and bedtime covered with toys, books and games. Plus, when your little one no longer needs their Mizzie teether, she can be returned to her maker, where the natural rubber is recycled to help create roads in Queensland.

SILVER BABY ACCESSORIES

Founder Rachael emphasises that investing in self-care, sleep aids and sustainability creates a ripple effect, inspiring others to adopt healthier habits and make responsible choices that benefit the earth. Through her journey, she shows that true success is measured not just by personal achievements but by the lasting impact one can have on the community and environment.

SILVER PERSONAL CARE

Here’s a not-so-fun fact: in Australia, 373 million plastic water bottles end up in waste each year. Enter Muve, maker of durable, insulated bottles that put single-use plastic to shame. Not only do Muve’s water bottles, mugs and tumblers keep cold drinks cold for up to 24 hours (and hot drinks hot for up to 12 hours), they can also be personalised or branded for your business. We’ll drink to that!

FINALIST ZERO-WASTE DRINK

Give your skin a glow up with Aussie brand Annod, a small-batch natural skincare range handcrafted with plant-based, organic ingredients. Founder Donna Ireland has spent 30 years refining these anti-ageing solutions, aimed at improving skin niggles like redness, deep lines, dryness, ageing and poor skin healing. Visit annod.com.au today for 20% off your first order: use the code PEPPERMINT 20.

FINALIST EXFOLIATOR

Rapid pain relief… naturally! Born from founder Rohan’s own journey with chronic pain, this topical balm was created as a drug-free, anti-inflammatory alternative to NSAIDs, targeting joint, muscle and nerve pain, injuries and arthritis. Made with organic super fruits, magnesium and essential oils, the formula is super concentrated, which means you’ll use much less product than similar treatments.

GOLD FAMILY FIRST AID

Periods cramping your style? Hey Zomi’s planet-friendly, reusable menstrual discs are a convenient solution. Made from medical grade silicone that moulds to your body to stay in place, it’s not a cup (no suction here!), can be worn for 12 hours, and sports a nifty handle for easy removal. Bonus? It lasts for 5+ years. A win, since pads can take up to 500 years to decompose. (Terrifying, we know.)

SILVER PERIOD PRODUCT

We see you rollin’. We approvin’. Mostly because you’ve picked a Solmates refillable roll-on applicator, made with recycled plastic and perfect for on-the-go application of your fave sunscreen this summer (also compatible with other lotions and potions). We love the convenient size, bright colours (check out the lifeguard edition), and handy tether for attachment – you won’t be forgetting it at home!

SILVER OUTDOOR LIVING

Handcrafted in rural Bangladesh, 71bay’s beautiful homewares celebrate the skills and resilience of women who live their lives largely in the shadows. Fair Trade principles, community-driven empowerment and sustainable materials are always front of mind, with products crafted from jute, kantha (recycled/repurposed ‘patched cloth’), and metal. Destined to become heirlooms!

GOLD CELEBRATIONS AND STATIONERY

C+C EDITOR’S CHOICE CELEBRATIONS AND STATIONERY

We’ve all owned at least one hard-used wine bottle, stuffed with a ratty candle and bedribbled with wax, right? Which is why this small North Queensland-based family business makes us so happy: they’re transforming landfill-bound wine and beer bottles sourced locally from restaurants, bars and businesses into beautiful candles and decor pieces you’ll be proud to show off.

FINALIST ZERO WASTE – HOME

A living cordial of fermented fresh fruit and herbs locally sourced from organic farmers around the Northern Rivers, Pyewacket’s range of apple cider vinegar-fermented shrubs and tonics add a certain something to sparkling water and alcohol-free cocktails. One small bottle makes seven drinks, reducing single-use plastic, and 1% of their total earnings goes to First Nations organisations.

GOLD HEALTH DRINK GOLD IMMUNE HEALTH

BRONZE GUT HEALTH C+C EDITOR’S CHOICE IMMUNE HEALTH

Need a helping hand with your intimate care? Enter Fantastically Moist: made for those occasions you’d rather not grin and bear dryness and discomfort. Formulated with edible apricot, raspberry and coconut oils, it’s slippery (but not greasy), vegan, and palm-oil free. Perfect for soothing external irritation caused by menopause, medication, illness, or to give your self-confidence a boost.

GOLD FEMALE INTIMATE CARE

Founder Tracey followed her nose (and industry know-how) to develop this luxurious natural skincare brand, handcrafted on the South Coast of NSW. Created using pure essential oils, organic ingredients, natural waxes and potent botanical extracts and butters, you’ll be treating your skin to award-winning formulations that put sustainability first. Smells heavenly, too!

GOLD + C+C EDITOR’S CHOICE MICRO BATCH SKINCARE

SILVER FACE MOISTURISER (DAY/DRY SKIN) SILVER NIGHT CREAM

It started with a jump: Aussie founder Louisa’s, off the side of a boat. The thought that her body care faves might cause harm to the ocean she loved so much led to Papermoon and its sustainable personal care solutions, like Aloe & Agave Deodorant Balm. It’s vegan, aluminium-free, comes in pretty, plastic-free, compostable packaging and nurtures your skin with gentle odour protection. Smells good!

GOLD DEODORANT

This Australian eco-conscious underwear brand caters to both men and women, offering comfortable, high-performance essentials. With innovative UltraGlyde™️ technology and moisture-wicking bamboo viscose, Step One’s products help prevent chafing and keep you feeling fresh. Fabrics are sustainably sourced and FSC️-certified, making them kind to the environment as well as your skin.

FINALIST UNDERWEAR

This B Corp-certified outfit is on a mission to “rewild the beauty industry” – that is, to give you great skin the ethical, sustainable and compassionate way. And they’re walking the walk: not only is Inbluem carbon-positive, their ingredients are ethically sourced in Australia. The simple yet powerful formulas are designed to work with the skin for long-term results. Take a walk on the wild side!

GOLD SOCIAL IMPACT BRONZE TONER/FACE MIST FINALIST SERUM

For parched or coloured hair in need of TLC, try Dust & Glow’s Powder Based Shampoo, which transforms into a luxurious, creamy lather when activated with water. Formulated with cacao, coconut and argan oil, plus smoothing betaine (from sugar beets), this soap-free concentrate hydrates and nourishes damaged strands. Pair with the Powder Based Conditioner for silky, shampoo-ad hair.

BRONZE ZERO-WASTE BODY

Dr Planet Australian Castile Soap is more than just soap – it’s a toxin-free cleaning solution that replaces loads of other cleaning products, helping you save money and reduce waste. Use Dr Planet on your skin, to clean your house, car or dog! Made with over 70% premium olive oil grown in Victoria and combined with pure essential oils, this is a high-quality product without the luxury price tag.

SILVER BATHROOM/LAUNDRY

C+C EDITOR’S CHOICE BATHROOM/LAUNDRY

Former Olympic champion Lydia Lassila has combined her love for yoga with her passion for sustainability, resulting in ZONE, a yoga clothing and accessories brand that uses eco-friendly materials such as cork, hemp and organic cotton in its products. ZONE is also a 1% for the Planet member, meaning 1% of sales are donated to environmental causes. Bonus: the brand is free from plastic packaging.

GOLD FITNESS ACCESSORIES GOLD UNDERWEAR BRONZE YOGA

Keen to ditch your non-stick cookware and replace it with a tried-and-true, non-toxic cooking solution that won’t scratch and peel? The Low Tox Project has you covered. This Australian-owned business is passionate about providing high-quality products with no nasty chemical or plastic coatings. The Low Tox Project specialises in long-lasting stainless steel bakeware, ovenware and kitchenware.

SILVER ZERO-WASTE – DRINK

Downunder Magnesium’s award-winning products provide essential minerals to reduce muscle pain and stress. Sourced from the pristine Salt Lakes of Western Australia, the whole family can use these products to treat various ailments, from restless legs and growing pains to anxiety, cramping, headaches and sleep improvement. Downunder Magnesium is vegan-friendly and free from synthetics!

GOLD BATHING SELF CARE FINALIST MUSCLE/SPORT PRODUCT

FINALIST FAMILY FIRST AID

Packing leftovers for work lunch will be even more sustainable using an Ecococoon food storage solution. Ecococoon is an Australian-owned brand that wants everyone to ditch single-use plastics for good. Here here! All Ecococoon products are made from food-grade stainless steel and are BPA-free. They’re also leak-proof, so you’ll never have to scrub sauce from the bottom of your bag again. Phew!

SILVER + C+C EDITOR’S CHOICE ZERO-WASTE – DRINK, REUSABLE

BOTTLE FINALIST KIDS MEALTIME BRONZE KIDS DRINK BOTTLE

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Acala Stem makes timeless treasures for yogis, babies and wearers of dreamy daywear (the lotus-silk kimono is an heirloom piece you’ll never want to part with). The brand’s Blue Lotus Face Oil bears the same commitment to quality, delivering smooth, hydrated skin (and hair!) with two ingredients: blue lotus absolute oil (said to promote happiness and calm) and Certified Organic golden jojoba.

GOLD FACE OIL

Summer is better without bugs. And nothing says “See ya, suckers” better than a bottle of DEET-free Natural Insect Repellent. Beloved by C+C judges, this stuff was also deemed the most effective natural repellent by Choice. It’s safe for the whole family, including bubs over 12 months. Bug-grrr Off also has bite-relief in the bag with its soothing spray, a mix of lavender, clove and menthol.

BRONZE FAMILY FIRST AID

Unlike the tequila shooters of your youth, bellyME’s nutritional probiotic shots are designed to make you feel good. According to bellyME, each shot contains 10 billion Lacto-bacillus plantarum (L-137®) probiotic cells and addresses various health needs, from digestion to stress. Try Sleep Well before bed – made with hops, valerian and sour cherry, it’s designed to give you the zzzs you need.

FINALIST SLEEP + CALM FINALIST GUT HEALTH

What happens when a sculptor and amateur wildlife photographer decides to create a jewellery collection? You get wearable art inspired by nature, of course! Handcrafted using sustainably sourced Australian silver, each creation is intended to spark curiosity and encourage a deeper connection with the natural world – 5% of each sale is also donated to environmental and human rights organisations.

Karen Clarey, founder of NeNe & Bop, creates one-of-a-kind leather bags that are inclusive, playful and functional. Carefully designed and thoughtfully created, most of the range – which includes clutches and purses – is crafted with sustainable kangaroo leather. Every inch of leather is utilised to create the NeNe & Bop range, with scraps transformed into colourful earrings and wearable art.

The 2022 Brisbane floods were tough on Katrin Hummel, but as she picked up the pieces she also rediscovered her love of drawing. For Katrin, it was a reminder that happiness can exist when things are hard – a lesson she now passes on via affordable giclée prints. Katrin also does custom work, celebrating special spots, like the backyard where your kids took their first wobbly steps. Awww.

If you’ve struggled with mental health, you’re going to love Emma Darrouzet’s art. Her stunning neon works take their names from the unsolicited advice she’s received (Bushwalking Fixes Anxiety is a favourite). A graduate of the Colorado Academy, Emma uses colour as therapy and catharsis. “The work aims to provide a voice for those who too often are ignored, dismissed and disbelieved,” she says.

Known for his bold use of colour, Claudio Kirac creates both abstract and portraiture mixed-media works that are bursting with joy and movement. The Gold Coast artist has been in the game for more than 25 years and his pieces feature in major collections. He offers originals and limited-edition prints (his neighbour does the printing!), as well as custom jobs, murals and brand collaborations.