The Business Paradigm for Corporate Social Reporting in the Context of Australian Seaports

Corporate social reporting (CSR) is ultimately concerned with learning about the effect an organisation has on society, about determining what corporate social responsibilities the organisation has within society, and allows the organisation to be accountable for these responsibilities. In recent years, Australian seaports have identified that CSR is an important strategic area and have begun to express an interest in the issue. This paper responds to this interest, and summarises the findings of a study into the business paradigm for CSR within the context of Australian seaports. The business paradigm embraces three primary sections. First is the philosophical drivers for CSR, which are societal demands for inclusivity and accountability, and government demands for transparency in social responsibility. The second encompasses the key management concerns and issues regarding CSR, including financial and time costs, risks involved with disclosure, how to engage in CSR, and questioning the value of the process. The third section comprises the key benefits expected to accrue from CSR including trust and reputation, important cost savings and the importance of CSR to sustainable success. The paper is concluded with a discussion on potential areas for further research. Maritime Economics & Logistics (2007) 9, 172–192. doi:10.1057/palgrave.mel.9100178