The views captured in the survey and resulting report provide useful insights into the priorities of directors – including the role of directors and the board in establishing and leading a productivity agenda.

Conducted with 695 Australian directors and governance leaders who are members of the AICD, the survey reveals a consistent theme: that short-term decision making and a lack of leadership are impacting business productivity in Australia. It also reveals some interesting perspectives about the purpose of business and the role directors see corporations playing in our society.

• Australian directors believe a lack of political courage is a key inhibitor of long-term productivity reform initiatives
• Training and skills development could 'turn-the-dial' on productivity and requires a renewed focus and investment
• Engaging in public debate and implementing better business practices are seen as important activities directors can undertake to influence public policy and champion reform
• Directors acknowledge that the business sector has a clear role to play in driving productivity reform in Australia
• There is a clear recognition from directors that businesses must play a role in supporting social cohesion.

• Productivity and its payoffs by Stephen Walters MAICD, Chief Economist, Australian Institute of Company Directors
• What is the purpose of business? by Lucas Ryan GAICD, NFP Policy Advisor, Australian Institute of Company Directors
• The director’s role by Sally Freeman, Partner in Charge, KPMG’s Risk Consulting Group.