Telstra announced the winners of its Best of Business Awards, spotlighting the Accelerating Women category, which celebrates small and medium-sized businesses that challenge exclusion and inequality to foster meaningful and lasting equity for women. With over 30 years of dedication to supporting Australian small businesses, Telstra continues to champion their achievements while providing opportunities for learning and growth. From fashion to tube feeding, the winners represent a diverse range of industries and initiatives. And, showcase the remarkable contributions of women-led businesses across Australia. Here’s a closer look at the fabulous females from each state, who walked away winners of the Telstra Best of Business Awards. While their product and service offerings may vary, all are committed to creating inclusive environments – making them worth recipients of Australia’s Best Businesses For Equality.
Australian Capital Territory: Spec Services
Spec Services is a female-led commercial and industrial cleaning company based in the ACT and regional NSW. Founded in 2014, the company has recently expanded its services to include asbestos removal. Spec Services champions diversity and social governance, striving for gender parity in leadership roles while forming partnerships with Indigenous organisations. Their commitment to inclusivity in traditionally male-dominated industries sets a powerful example for others to follow.
New South Wales: Underwear for Humanity
Underwear for Humanity is transforming the fashion industry through sustainability and social impact. Their innovative one-for-one donation model ensures that for every item sold, another is donated to someone in need. Using eco-friendly materials and zero-plastic shipping, the brand demonstrates a strong commitment to ethical practices. They also empower Indigenous communities and refugees, establishing new standards for responsible and impactful business practices.
Northern Territory: Ikuntji Artists
Founded in 1992, Ikuntji Artists began as a women’s centre before shifting its focus in 2005 to support local Aboriginal artists and foster Anangu culture. This not-for-profit organisation specialises in canvas, fabrics, and jewellery, collaborating with artists worldwide to showcase the work of over 40 talented individuals in museums and on fashion runways. By promoting Indigenous art, Ikuntji Artists not only empowers local communities but also celebrates rich cultural heritage.
Queensland: Wholesome Blends
Wholesome Blends, established by Sarah Thomas, provides Australian families with wholefood options for enteral or tube-fed nutrition. Their products are made entirely from natural ingredients, offering essential nutritional solutions while fostering a supportive community for families navigating tube-feeding. Wholesome Blends enhances the quality of life for tube-fed individuals, demonstrating the importance of health and well-being in business.
South Australia: Adelaide Mums and Babies Clinic
Established in 2018, the Adelaide Mums and Babies Clinic provides expert care in breastfeeding, paediatrics, and women’s health through an evidence-based approach. The clinic prioritises comprehensive, empathetic care using Neuroprotective Developmental Care, offering parenting classes and support groups to nurture new families. Their holistic approach to maternal and child health is vital in fostering strong foundations for the future.
Tasmania: VA Institute
VA Institute, founded in 2017, offers comprehensive training and support for virtual assistants, creating a “business in a box” for aspiring entrepreneurs. Grounded in real industry experience, their programmes equip participants with the skills and resources necessary to launch successful virtual assistant businesses. By empowering women to take control of their careers, VA Institute contributes to the growth of the gig economy and encourages professional independence.
Western Australia: Menopause Friendly Australia
Founded by Grace Molloy, Menopause Friendly Australia addresses the impact of menopause in the workplace. Their CPD-accredited training creates supportive environments for women, helping employers retain experienced staff during a critical phase of life. By fostering open conversations and effective policies, they aim to reduce gender disparities in leadership roles and improve retirement outcomes for women.
Victoria: Fitted for Work
Since its inception in 2005, Fitted for Work has empowered women across Australia by improving their job-readiness and economic independence. Above all, the organisation provides holistic support, including CV assistance, personal styling, and mentoring. Having served over 45,000 women nationally, their inclusive programmes not only enhance confidence and employment skills but also promote long-term economic security and workforce participation.