Member for Davison, Jonathan O'Dea has called on the local community to publicly recognise outstanding local businesses by nominating them for the 2011 Telstra Business Awards.
"As someone who has run a business myself, I know that small and medium businesses are the backbone of our community," Mr O'Dea said.
"Their achievements and contribution to the local economy deserve to be celebrated through this prestigious awards program.
"The Telstra Business Awards provide an opportunity for customers, suppliers and supporters to highlight the outstanding owners, entrepreneurs, innovators and employees behind our best local businesses.
"I understand many business owners, who have entered the Awards, claim they have gained enormous benefits from reviewing their business during the submission process as well as from receiving the 70-page Business Health Check report," Mr O'Dea said.
The report is a benchmarking tool that can assist in identifying growth opportunities and business improvements.
The Business Health Check is based on international benchmarking standards, including the Global Reporting Index and Innovation Standards, current legislation and accepted industry best practice.
It was developed by Telstra Business in consultation with the NSW Business Chamber, which has been using it to coach and develop businesses over the past four years.
"Entries for the Telstra NSW Business Awards close on Monday, 4 April 2011 and winners share in $500,000 in overall cash and prizes," Mr O'Dea said.
"I would encourage the community to become involved by nominating worthy local businesses for the 2011 Telstra NSW Business Awards," Mr O'Dea concluded.
