Collective Autonomy
PUBLISHED ON 29 AUG 2025
Introducing ‘Collective Autonomy’
Each month, we shine a light on a business that helps Lennox Head thrive, not only through their services and products, but by showing up for the community, sparking conversations, and creating positive change.
This August, we’re proud to feature Collective Autonomy, a purpose-driven gift store and community hub that champions sustainability, creativity, and local makers.
Collective Autonomy
Where craft meets purpose.
Collective Autonomy is more than a gift store; it’s a movement. Stocking sustainable and locally sourced products (with 60% of suppliers from the Northern Rivers), the store brings together makers who care deeply about their craft and the environment.
Collective Autonomy is built on the belief that while we are all individuals, it’s through collective action that we can create real systemic change. Kim’s mission is to educate and inspire people to support small, local makers who genuinely care about the environment, rather than faceless corporations with little regard for their impact.
Kim takes pride in championing Lennox-based makers, building close collaborations with creatives like painter Sharon McIlwain, her partner Dr. Hilton Koppe (author, spoon carver, and upcoming workshop host), upcycled bag designer Cathy Smyth, and illustrator Jasmin Meier. Working with locals allows her not only to showcase their talent but also to co-create products that resonate with the community. Through these partnerships, Collective Autonomy becomes more than a shop; it’s a hub for collaboration, sustainability, and community storytelling.
Workshops & Events
This year, Kim launched Collective Autonomy Events, monthly workshops and talks designed to spark creativity and conversation. From watercolour painting and journalling to collage and upcycled jewellery making, these gatherings offer the community a chance to learn, connect, and share skills. Next year, the events will expand to include local speakers on meaningful topics, further weaving education into the store’s mission.
Upcoming Events in September
Reflective Writing Workshop — SUN, 14 SEP│10 AM - 1 PM
Dr. Hilton Koppe will offer a range of writing exercises designed to help you get started and to find new directions.
Upcoming Events in October
Tarot Reading Workshop — SAT, 25 OCT│2:30 - 4 PM
Where local tarot reader Claire Swinney will be teaching how to use your intuition to tap into tarot cards without relying on others' interpretationsRing-Making Workshop — SUN, 26 OCT│9:30 AM - 12 PM
Learn the lost wax method of silver casting with local facilitator Roxanna
Follow @collective.autonomy for details or join the mailing list to stay up to date.
“I grew up surrounded by tea tree lakes, Boreen Point’s Lake Cootharaba felt just like our own Lake Ainsworth. That water connection made Lennox instantly feel like home, reminding me of carefree childhood days. Fun fact: I was born as a water baby in a basket woven from bush vines! With nature at the centre of my life from the beginning, creating a business considering its environmental impact has always felt like the natural choice.”
Meet
Kim Coupe
Before launching Collective Autonomy, Kim built a strong foundation in leadership roles across retail, sales, and hospitality.
Around eight years ago, the idea for her own business began to take shape. Inspired while working at Perfect Potion, a purpose-driven company that introduced her to sustainable business practices, Kim started dreaming of creating a store that combined everything she loved while remaining kind to the earth.
In November 2021, she brought that dream to life with a pop-up store at Epiq Marketplace. The tenancy was secured on a whim one night, and just three weeks later, Collective Autonomy opened its doors. When the short-term lease ended, coinciding with a COVID outbreak and regional floods, Kim made the tough call to pause while Lennox and the surrounding area recovered. But that break only strengthened her resolve, and a year and a half later, she found the perfect space to relaunch.
Already having had a taste of being her own boss, Kim was even more determined the second time around to build a thriving business. That drive and resilience is what shapes Collective Autonomy today.
Sustainability Vision for Lennox
Kim’s vision is for Lennox Head to become a hub for sustainable businesses. She believes change starts with small, simple steps. Conducting audits of waste, suppliers, energy, and water use can set a strong foundation, while even something as straightforward as switching to a renewable energy provider makes an immediate difference. During our After Hours Sustainability Event in October, she will be sharing some actionable steps any business owner can take for a more sustainable approach.
For those ready to go further, pursuing sustainability certifications such as B Corp offers valuable guidance, while aligning donations with business values can deepen community impact. Kim also highlights the often-overlooked role of workplace culture. Building a positive, supportive team environment fuels genuine passion for sustainability and drives long-term change.
Most recently, Collective Autonomy completed a sustainability audit of its suppliers, ensuring that every partnership reflects the values at the core of the business. For Kim, sustainability isn’t just an add-on; it’s the guiding principle that shapes every decision, big or small.
