Here are highly regarded Australian shoe brands that emphasise sustainability, with a short note on what makes each one stand out:

• R.M. Williams — Heritage Australian bootmaker that has made major moves on sustainability and transparency (including B Corp certification and a public sustainability playbook; still manufactures a large portion of boots in Australia). (theaustralian.com.au)

• Etiko — Australian ethical brand focused on certified fair‑trade, organic materials and 100% vegan footwear; long track record on supply‑chain transparency and worker welfare. (shopethical.org.au)

• Old Soles — Sydney‑founded brand specialising in kids’ shoes that promotes sustainably sourced materials, skin‑safe leathers/organic cotton and more eco‑minded manufacturing/packaging choices. (oldsoles.com.au)

• PaperKrane (including its PaperKrane / PK line) — Australian‑designed shoes with vegan leather alternatives certified to Global Recycled Standard/Recycled Claim Standard and ethical production partners. (PaperKrane.com.au)

• (Bonus — initiatives you’ll see in Australia) Save Our Soles / recycling programs — national and retailer programs helping recycle worn work boots and shoes to reduce landfill (useful when you want to dispose of or recycle old footwear responsibly). (hippocketworkwear.com.au)

How to pick the best sustainable shoe for you

• Look for independent certifications or verifiable claims (B Corp, Fairtrade, GOTS/GOTS‑style organic, GRS/RCS for recycled content, FSC for natural rubber).
• Prefer long‑lasting designs and repairable construction — longer life often beats “eco” materials that wear out quickly.
• Check country of manufacture and supply‑chain transparency (brands that publish factories, audits or sustainability reports are easier to trust).
• If you need vegan or leather options, confirm whether materials are certified (e.g., verified sustainable leather, or fully vegan without animal glues).

Would you like recommendations by style (sneakers, boots, kids’ shoes) or a short list of where to buy these in Australia?