Are Social Issues Relegated to the Backburner? An analysis of CSR Reports of Australian MNEs

Abstract

Using the GRI guidelines this paper examines changes in reporting/disclosure for three main areas of sustainability disclosure (such as, environmental, social, economic, product responsibility, human right and labour practice and decent work categories) of Australian MNEs between 2004 and 2007. Based on non-parametric method of study, it provides evidence that most of the material changes in disclosure happened in environmental category than that of social, economic and other areas. While increased disclosure in specific environmental areas are worth reporting, it is of concern for not having similar improvement in other sustainability disclosure categories by Australian MNEs to ensure corporate social responsibility of corporate firms. The findings of this paper would provide insights to the policy makers to develop appropriate strategy for the creation of societal values and sustainable economic growth by the corporate citizens.