Firefighters and nurses top the list of Australia’s most trusted occupations, according to the 2024 Ethics Index.

Conversely, real estate agents, federal/state politicians, and directors of foreign companies operating in Australia, are viewed as the least ethical.

Now in its ninth year, the Governance Institute of Australia’s Ethics Index involves an independent nationwide survey that examines perceptions of ethical issues and conduct in Australian society. This includes what Australians believe to be the most and least ethical occupations, organisations and sectors, as well current and future ethical challenges.

Cost of living pressures emerged as the major ethical concern for many Australians struggling with rising prices in housing, healthcare and everyday essentials, the latest survey findings revealed. They are also very concerned about cyber security breaches and the increasing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

In relation to cost of living concerns, Australians perceive supermarket pricing as the most unethical behaviour, the survey found, while perceptions of GPs who don’t offer bulk billing also declined.

Meanwhile, the ethical obligation for organisations to tackle climate change, even if it results in reduced profits or jobs losses, increased significantly over the past year, the Ethics Index found.

“It is clear that the ethical expectations of Australians are higher than ever,” Governance Institute of Australia CEO Megan Motto said in the report.

“The gap between the importance placed on ethics and the perceived ethical performance of institutions, known as the Ethics Expectation Deficit, remains wide. This calls for renewed commitment from leaders and organisations to bridge the gap and foster a culture of integrity and ethical behaviour.”