The first thing is to understand what each award category represents so you can work out which one is right for you.
Next, take a step back from the day-to-day so you can look at your business objectively. Consider why you started it. What was it that you wanted to change? By thinking bigger and more philosophically, the category / categories will become clear.
Australian small and medium-sized businesses often wear many hats, so it's not unusual for a business to fit into a few different categories. Enter as many categories you feel are relevant to your business. Make sure each entry is tailored to its specific category rather than using a 'cut and paste' approach. Or choose one category and focus your efforts on a single entry.
Need advice? Contact our Awards team, and we’ll be happy to help.
The more detail, the better. In your entry, we'll ask about your business plans, including year-on-year performance and financial projections. We'll also want to know about your operating model, marketing strategies and your business vision, goals and values.
To prepare for the real event, you'll find a list of sample video interview questions in the Awards Hub. Work through them so you know what to expect during the actual entry process.
We've recommended timeframes for each stage of the process. Before you start your entry, make sure you've set aside plenty of time to consider each question and collate the information you need to give detailed answers.
No one knows your business better than you. You're welcome to engage subject matter specialists to supply information where needed, however we recommend that you, the business owner complete the final answers.
As an official entity, the Telstra Best of Business Awards adheres to the highest levels of governance and integrity. That means any results you submit must be provable.
In Stages 2 and 3, you’ll be asked for results. Where you can, please include details of the methods or tools you used to measure these results.
Also, in Stage 3, we'll ask how your business started. Where possible, include the best examples of supporting material (marketing campaigns, results, competitor analysis, news clippings, reviews, recognition) to validate your story. Engage relevant subject matter experts as early as possible.
Try to tailor your entry to match the award category (or categories) you've entered. This helps ensure every entry receives the best possible score and satisfies all category-specific judging criteria. Momentous achievements are worth including, but our judges will be looking for what makes your business successful, along with evidence to support your story.
This is your time to shine. Be specific when you describe what makes your business unique. Tell us how you differ from the competition.
Try to avoid generic statements that could apply to any business. The judges will be looking for individuality, passion and tenacity. This may be a business awards program, but we want to get to know the heart and soul of your business.
Written submissions can be intimidating but you won’t be judged on your writing skills. For Stages 2 and 3, finding a balance between creativity and business acumen will help you stand out.
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Stay tuned for the announcement of our 2026 program dates.
We accept nominations all year round. If you know an exceptional business moving Australia forward, nominate them today.
Explore our award categories, application process, selection criteria and eligibility.
Find answers to your frequently asked questions.
Speak with our Awards Team and call 1800 AWARDS Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm (AEDT).
Ensure you're eligible to enter by viewing our official terms and conditions.
