You can also browse the topics below to find what you are looking for.
Who can I nominate?
You can nominate any business you believe is making a difference and deserves recognition - even your own. If you’ve been nominated, make sure to check the eligibility criteria for each category before entering.
Can I nominate myself?
You absolutely can. If your business meets the criteria then you’re more than welcome to self-nominate.
I've been nominated, what do I do next?
Congratulations on your nomination. Keep an eye on your inbox for an email that will tell you how to join the Awards program, please follow the prompts outlined inside. For any urgent questions not covered here, call 1300 AWARDS, Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm (AEST).
I've been nominated, do I have to take part in the Awards?
No. If you've been nominated, but feel the Awards aren't for you right now, it's ok. If you know who nominated you, feel free to reach out and thank them for their support.
What happens after a nomination is made?
Once a business is nominated, we contact them by email with an invitation to enter the Awards program. There's no further action required from the person who made the nomination.
If a business is nominated more than once, does that increase their chances of winning?
No. The number of nominations a business might receive has no bearing on their success.
Does it cost anything?
No. Nominating and entering the Telstra Best of Business Awards is completely free.
Who can enter?
Any business that is making a difference and deserves recognition. Before you enter, make sure to check the eligibility criteria for that category.
Can changes with COVID-19 affect the Awards program?
The reimagined Awards program and entry process were developed in the midst of COVID-19 and designed to be an online experience. Activities like judging interviews can all take place online.
We'll monitor the situation closely and decisions will be made as event dates draw near.
If you still have any concerns, please feel free to contact our Awards team.
How much time will I need to commit to the entry process, and attending events if I'm recognised as a finalist?
The Awards program runs from May 2022 to March 2023. Review our key dates and approximately how long each of the 4 entry stages take here.
Who can help contribute to my entry?
Anyone from within your business can help you with your entry. Use your business subject matter experts to your advantage. If you happen to outsource aspects of your business such as accountancy or marketing, you're welcome to use their contributions too.
How do I work out which category is right for me?
The range of Award Categories has been carefully created to ensure inclusivity with options for every kind of small and medium-sized business. Consider categories that align with your business, values and purpose.
Read stories from our 2022 program finalists and winners to help give you an idea of the type of small and medium-sized business who have won previously.
If you're still unsure, consider discussing the options with your staff. Otherwise, feel free to contact our Awards team.
How many categories can I enter?
As many as you like. We encourage you to select the category or categories that best reflect your business.
Can I win two categories?
Yes you can. As each of your entries gets judged independently, it's definitely a possibility. Ensure each entry is tailored to each category you decide to go for.
Do I need to answer every question?
Yes. Every question must be answered to validate your entry (or entries). Answer questions carefully, and be sure to highlight every business achievement. Answers will be referred to throughout the judging process.
What if I can’t answer the financial questions?
If you find the financial questions tricky, your business’s registered accountant can help. Entries are only valid if all questions are fully and accurately answered. Please bear in mind, successful entrants will be asked for verification from their accountant that all figures submitted are accurate.
I own a not-for-profit organisation, am I eligible to enter?
100%, the Telstra Best of Business Awards welcomes NGOs, and charities with open arms.
I’m a sole trader, am I eligible to enter?
Absolutely, the Telstra Best of Business Awards have been designed to cater to most small to medium-sized businesses, and sole traders are an essential part of this group.
Are franchise owners eligible for the Awards?
Yes. If you own more than 60% of the business, have been operating for at least 12 months and your franchisor is an Australian-owned company not listed on the ASX, you are eligible to enter.
How do I start my entry?
You are invited to enter the Awards when you are nominated and Stage 1 entries open. You can nominate yourself or be nominated by someone else. Once nominated, keep an eye on your inbox for an email that will tell you how to set up your Awards Hub profile and begin your entry.
How do I submit my entry?
Once entries open on Monday 16 May 2022, submit your entry (or entries) via the Awards Hub. Each section, once completed, will prompt you to save and submit.
Do I need to submit a Profit & Loss Statement?
Yes. A Profit & Loss Statement is required for Stage 3 of the entry.
My entry contains sensitive information. Are entries confidential?
All personal and sensitive information contained in your entry submissions are treated in accordance with our privacy statement (available here: https://www.telstra.com.au/privacy). This information and your responses to the entry forms will be used for judging interviews and may be shared with our related entities, business partners or other third-parties that we engage for the purposes of the Awards.
If I change my mind about aspects of my entry, can I redo it?
Once submitted, unfortunately not. You only have one chance to record your official submission.
Can I practice?
There is a practice feature built into the Awards Hub. It’s definitely worth taking advantage of.
What if I can’t complete a video?
If you can’t complete a video due to technical difficulties, we may be able to help.
How should I structure my Pitch Pack?
The Pitch Pack structure details are provided on the Awards Hub. All you need to do is answer the questions and upload supporting information in your preferred format.
How do I submit it?
Submit your Pitch Pack on the Awards Hub. Once completed, simply click save and submit.
How do I upload files?
All files can be easily uploaded on the Awards Hub, using the attach file function. If you have trouble call us on 1800 AWARDS Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm (AEST).
How are Judges selected?
Our Judges are a carefully curated and diverse panel of business luminaries and academics with deep industry experience. They’re all passionate advocates for small to medium-sized businesses who volunteer their time to participate in the judging process.
What do I get out of participating in the Awards?
For ambitious businesses, there is much to learn and experience. Visit our Why Enter page and read our Alumni Stories.
When am I classified as an Alumni?
If you become a State Finalist, you’re automatically added to our Alumni community of Australia’s best and brightest business minds.
Please don't hesitate to contact the Awards Team on 1800 AWARDS Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm (AEDT).