22 October 2007 
 
Being honest and showing integrity are the key traits for being a good leader according to an Australia-wide survey. These are just some of the strengths a judging panel will be looking for when considering nominations in Australia’s premier business awards, the Business Leader Awards 2008.  
 
The independent* research considered the views of 1200 Australians and also found that of the 750 surveyed in employment, 72 per cent said their immediate boss or manager is a good leader.  
 
“This is great news for Australian employers and demonstrates the pedigree of our leaders in organisations large and small. We are looking forward to receiving many applications from Australians submitting their boss for a Business Leader Award,” said Graham Meyer, chief executive officer, Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia. 
 
The Chartered Accountants Business Leader Awards, proudly partnered by Perpetual, are Australia’s highest accolade in business, celebrating the wealth of business talent in Australia.  
 
The list of qualities respondents selected as number one traits of a leader included: 
Ø Being honest and having integrity - 50% 
Ø Having a clear vision and direction - 20% 
Ø Being respected by the people they lead - 15% 
Ø Demonstrating social responsibility - 7% 
Ø Being prepared to take risks - 3% 
Ø Being innovative - 3% 
 
Chartered Accountants Business Leader of the Year 2008 nominees will be judged on their ability to demonstrate visionary leadership, exhibit best practice, show innovation and take risks, foster positive employee relations and contribute to the community as well as displaying honesty and integrity. 
 
Some previous winners include Dr. Brian McNamee, managing director, CSL Limited; Allan Moss, chief executive officer, Macquarie Bank; Paul Little, managing director, Toll Group and Michael Chaney, who was then the managing director, Wesfarmers. 
 
You can nominate your boss or a business acquaintance by visiting <http://www.charteredaccountants.com.au/awards>. Nominations are open now and close on 16 November 2007.  
 
The winner will be announced at the event at Doltone House, Jones Street Wharf, Pyrmont on 14 March 2008. Table bookings for this prestigious event are available now at $2000 for a table of eight. 
 
* Research was completed by Newspoll 
 
ENDS 
 
Media enquiries please contact: 
Sarah Watson 
Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia 
Ph: 02 9290 5562 / 0405 192011