Australia has been making significant strides in the realm of sustainable business practices, with a growing number of leaders emerging as champions of environmental and social responsibility. These individuals are not only driving change within their organisations but also inspiring others to follow suit. In this article, we shine a spotlight on some of the key leaders in sustainable business in Australia, whose innovative approaches and commitment to sustainability are shaping the future of business in the country.

1. Mike Cannon-Brookes – Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Atlassian:
As one of the co-founders of Atlassian, a leading global software company, Mike Cannon-Brookes has been a vocal advocate for sustainability. Under his leadership, Atlassian has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and has made significant investments in renewable energy. Cannon-Brookes has been actively involved in promoting clean energy solutions and has used his platform to encourage other business leaders to prioritise sustainability.

2. Emma Herd – CEO of the Investor Group on Climate Change (IGCC)
Emma Herd plays a pivotal role in driving sustainable practices within the finance sector. As the CEO of IGCC, she works with institutional investors to integrate climate change considerations into their decision-making processes. Herd is a strong advocate for sustainable investing, emphasising the importance of aligning financial goals with environmental and social objectives. Through her leadership, she is influencing the financial landscape in Australia to be more sustainable and responsible.

3. Jo Horgan – Founder and Co-CEO of MECCA Brands
Jo Horgan, the founder of MECCA Brands, a cosmetics retailer, has been a trailblazer in the beauty industry’s sustainable transformation. MECCA Brands has made significant efforts to reduce its environmental footprint by implementing sustainable packaging, sourcing ethical ingredients, and supporting charitable initiatives. Horgan’s commitment to sustainability is not only evident in the company’s practices but also in her advocacy for conscious consumerism within the beauty sector.

4. Audrey Zibelman – CEO of the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO)
As the CEO of AEMO, Audrey Zibelman plays a crucial role in shaping the energy landscape in Australia. She has been a driving force behind the transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy system. Zibelman has championed the integration of renewable energy sources, grid modernisation, and the development of a more flexible and sustainable energy market. Her leadership is instrumental in steering Australia towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.

5. Andrew Forrest – Founder and Chairman of Fortescue Metals Group :
Andrew Forrest, through Fortescue Metals Group, has been a key player in promoting sustainable practices within the mining and resources sector. While traditionally seen as an industry with significant environmental impact, Forrest has been pushing for sustainable mining practices and investing in green technologies. His commitment to renewable energy projects and the development of green hydrogen has positioned Fortescue as a leader in sustainable mining practices.

These visionary leaders in sustainable business are at the forefront of a transformative movement that is reshaping the Australian business landscape. Their commitment to environmental and social responsibility not only benefits their organisations but also sets a powerful example for others to follow. As these individuals continue to advocate for sustainable practices, Australia is poised to become a global leader in the pursuit of a more sustainable and resilient future for business and the planet.