Who could have imagined all the possibilities arising from Australia’s most prestigious business awards?
In the early 1990s, Telstra wanted to officially recognise the achievements and enterprising spirit of Australian small to medium businesses.
The Telstra Business Awards journey commenced in 1992 to help build awareness of successful Australian businesses within the broader community.
The Awards also sought to provide these businesses with national recognition for outstanding dedication and commitment. At the same time, they helped many growing businesses to greater achievements and, in many cases, international success.
As the ‘engine room' of the Australian economy, small-to-medium businesses perform a vital role in the nation’s economic health. Originally restricted to up to 100 employees, businesses with up to 200 employees are now eligible for nomination. These businesses not only benefit the day-to-day lives of their own employees, customers, suppliers and families, but all Australians. Ultimately, we are all beneficiaries of the achievements and innovations created by our best entrepreneurs.
Today, in its 18th year, the Telstra Business Awards remains Australia’s pre-eminent business awards program. Telstra is proud to have imagined the possibilities at the outset - along with our leading lights in business, commerce and industry.
This year, for the first time, every entrant will receive a Business Health Check to help them plan for the future. And for finalists and winners, the possibilities could be endless, including national exposure, an unparalleled business network and an instant competitive advantage.
The Award categories
In 2010 there are five Award categories.
You may enter one of the following three qualifying categories based on the size of your business:
- businessowner Micro-Business Award
For businesses with five employees or fewer.
- MYOB Small Business Award
For businesses with more than five employees, but less than or equal to 20 employees.
- Panasonic Australia Medium Business Award
For businesses with more than 20 employees, but less than or equal to 200 employees.
All entrants will also be considered for the following two specialist Awards:
- AMP Innovation Award
For businesses that have successfully introduced an Innovation.
- Sensis Social responsibility Award
For demonstrated leadership and contribution by a business to the environment, people, education or the community.
State/Territory Awards
All category winners will be announced at the State/Territory presentation dinners. Winners of the three qualifying categories will also be eligible to win the overall Telstra Business of the Year for their State or Territory.
National Awards
Category winners in each State/Territory will be eligible to represent their business at the national awards ceremony in their respective category. The winners of the overall Telstra Business of the Year in each State/Territory will also be eligible to be named the 2010 Telstra Australian Business of the Year.