Employers, public trust Malcolm Turnbull over Wayne Swan to manage their business, household expenses

In a recent survey carried out by legal and accounting group MSI Global Alliance in June 2008, 1112 business-owners and members of the public were asked who they would trust to run their business and household finances respectively, Federal Treasurer Wayne Swan or his opposite number Malcolm Turnbull.

Fifty-seven percent said they would trust Malcolm Turnbull over Wayne Swan to manage their household budget while 64% of business-owners concurred that, of the two, they would also prefer Malcolm Turnbull to run their business finances.

These results were part of a broader annual survey conducted by MSI Global Alliance where respondents were asked to rate how much they trusted a range of 42 different people and organisations, from our political leaders and charity organisations to teachers and home cleaners. The survey results provide a clear picture of those we trust and those we have less faith in.

In a follow up survey from 2007, Aussies and Kiwis agree most health professions continue to hold our trust with ambulance drivers, nurses, pharmacists, doctors and dentists topping the list. Once again telemarketers, car salesmen and real estate agents rate as least trustworthy.

MSI Global Alliance spokesperson Charles Hornor commented, “We saw a few very interesting differences in the results from last year – in particular priests seem to have renewed our trust in both countries.”

There were also a few notable differences as the Kiwi lawyers topped the trust ranking, while Aussie lawyers come in at 20. It would seem that Telstra took a dive for the worse dropping six places, while Telecom New Zealand gained six places on the New Zealand chart. However, there was a common understanding that accountants are trusted on both sides of the Tasman.

On a political note the leaders of both countries are still more trusted than the opposition leaders, with the Prime Minister in Australia winning our trust over the opposition. However with the impending election in New Zealand, it seems the kiwi vote is very close with only one ranking in trust separating the two. Interestingly ‘politicians in government’ in New Zealand have fallen four places while politicians in opposition have jumped six places.

Mr Hornor commented, “Comparing the results from last year, highlights some definite common believes, with health professionals being a clear winner, is that because we dare not question those who look after our health. Yet, we continue to doubt the professions that are known for not telling the truth, government leaders, telemarketers, real estate agents and car salesmen.”

Click here to view the survey results.