The Australian Leadership Paradox

Book excerpt: Why are Australian leaders so reluctant to acknowledge the power they have and unsure what to do with it? Australian Leadership Paradox claims Australians have a serious problem with leadership. It explains the cultural roots of this problem, and ways we can become more purposeful leaders. Australians bemoan the quality of our leaders. We blame those in power for not showing leadership, only to turn on them when they start tackling the hard issues they are expected to fix. No wonder that even the most passionate and talented among us hesitate to take up this important role. The Australian Leadership Paradox offers us a circuit breaker for this impasse, providing new insights into Australia's distinct leadership culture and showing us a new way forward. It exposes the inherent tensions in Australians' historical relationship with authority; interrogates our culture of mateship and egalitarianism, and challenges the narrative of a nation of Aussies battling adversity when we are actually living in 'the lucky country'. These tensions are the paradoxes of Australian leadership. Drawing on their extensive experience working with hundreds of leaders from government, business and community organisations, Geoff Aigner and Liz Skelton show how it's possible for Australian leadership to be inspiring, sustainable and effective - and how we can participate in creating the change we want to see in the world. 'Aigner and Skelton challenge our understanding of what leadership characteristics are needed in the Australian context, with every page presenting new insights and possibilities. a fascinating portrayal of how leadership is exercised in our institutions but leaves us yearning for something much better.' - Robert Fitzgerald AM, Commissioner, Productivity Commission '.in the tradition of Donald Horne's The Lucky Country. this book challenges us to rise above complacency and complaint and accept that leadership and power are needed for progress.' - Professor Geoff Gallop, former Premier of Western Australia 'This is a reaffirming and engaging book and will be my new recommended read for people trying to understand the complexity of leadership in Australia. There is warmth and optimism about creating a new Australian leadership story which makes it all seem possible.' - Wendy McCarthy AO