Celebrating Excellence: The Telstra Best of Business Awards

The Telstra Best of Business Awards recognises Australian businesses, that drive innovation, equity, sustainability, and growth across the nation.

As we approach the 2025 awards season, Small Business Australia once again proudly supports this initiative by Telstra and encourages our members and readers to consider nominating their own business or others that exemplify excellence in their field.

A Showcase of Australian Business Excellence

These prestigious awards highlight organisations that are not only thriving but also making a significant impact on society, the economy, and the environment. From championing equality to driving technological innovation, these businesses are shaping Australia's future.

The awards feature several distinct categories that reflect the diverse ways businesses contribute to the nation:

The Nomination Process

Nominations for the Telstra Best of Business Awards are open year-round, allowing individuals to spotlight deserving businesses. The process involves two key stages:

  1. Initial Assessment: A multiple-choice evaluation of the business's success and impact.
  2. Detailed Submission: An opportunity to expand on the business's story and highlight unique contributions.

Nominees are kept informed of their progress throughout the process, ensuring transparency.

Why These Awards Matter

The Telstra Best of Business Awards go beyond mere recognition; they serve as a platform to amplify the voices of businesses driving meaningful change across Australia. By celebrating these organisations, the awards inspire others to innovate, grow, and contribute positively to society and the environment.

Benefits of Participation

Participating in the Telstra Best of Business Awards offers significant advantages:

  • Enhanced credibility and recognition within the industry
  • Increased visibility and valuable publicity
  • Networking opportunities with other innovative organisations
  • A chance for self-assessment and business improvement
  • Boosted employee morale and improved talent attraction
  • Market differentiation from competitors

Small Business Australia's Involvement

Small Business Australia is proud to support the Telstra Best of Business Awards. Our Chief Executive, Bill Lang, has been honoured to serve as a judge for these prestigious awards over the past few years across a number of the categories.

Reflecting on his experience following the 2022 awards, Bill noted, "My key takeaway from the awards ceremony – along with a deep sense of pride in the efforts of all finalists – was that businesses only improve at the rate an owner improves their own knowledge and skills."

This observation aligns perfectly with Small Business Australia's commitment to lifelong learning and continuous improvement for business owners. As Bill emphasises, "The moment you think you know it all is when you start being left behind. This has never been more relevant than today, with new digital tools, platforms and opportunities appearing at an incredible rate."

Bill Lang notes that the innovation entrepreneurship and calibre of the businesses nominating for the awards in previous years has been fantastic to see and that, "It's another reminder for every owner that they can benefit from deepening their learning, skills and experience by nominating for the 2025 Awards."

The Impact on Business Confidence

Participating in these awards can significantly boost business confidence and owner well-being. As Bill Lang points out, "Certainty is something every business owner craves, but changing business conditions can make forecasting your future a challenge."

The ability to predict sales and costs with greater accuracy, which can be enhanced through the self-assessment process of the awards, offers more confidence in the future and sets businesses up for success. This increased certainty can be incredibly valuable, especially considering the challenges small business owners face.

Get Involved

Do you know a business that embodies excellence in innovation, equity, sustainability, or growth? Or perhaps your own business fits the criteria? Nominations are open year-round, making it easy to shine a spotlight on deserving organisations.

For more details or assistance with nominations, reach out to the Awards Team at 1800 AWARDS (Monday - Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM AEDT).

The Telstra Best of Business Awards is more than just an accolade; it's a celebration of businesses that embody excellence and drive positive change. By recognising these organisations, we not only honour their achievements but also inspire others to contribute to Australia's future.

Small Business Australia wholeheartedly supports these awards and encourages all eligible businesses to consider participating. Whether you're nominating an exceptional business or celebrating their success stories, remember that every effort counts in building a better nation.

As we look forward to the 2025 awards, let's continue to champion the spirit of innovation, resilience, and excellence that defines Australian businesses. Your participation could be the next inspiring story that drives our business community forward.

If you want to be involved or just to find out more about the 2025 awards visit: www.telstra.com.au/small-business/best-of-business-awards before nominations close on April 11 2025.