Advertising and marketing agencies have been listed as some of the country’s places to work for Best Workplaces in Australia 2025.
The rankings are based on its annual workforce study, using the Trust Index Survey. The survey examines confidential employee feedback on workplace culture, with 60 statements rated on a 5-point scale and two open-ended questions covering trust, respect, credibility, fairness, pride and camaraderie.
The list spans across micro, small, medium and large companies, among those are several advertising and marketing agencies.
This Is Flow
This Is Flow came in at #2 for the small-sized business (30 to 99 staff) category
“Talent and culture is what sets Flow apart” said Jimmy Hyett, CEO of This is Flow. “The key differentiator is that our culture design doesn’t come from leadership – it’s crafted from the ground up.
“Every person in the agency contributes their own unique personality, passion and energy, and that’s the glue that combines diversity with commonality. This mix is what makes Flow culture so authentic and real, and I’m so proud to see this continue over the last 10 years of Flow.’
Thirst Creative
Taking #6 in the micro category (under 30 employees) is full-service creative agency, Thirst Creative, based in Carlton, Victoria.
Ben Harbinson, founder, owner and head of creative, told Mediaweek the recognition was the consecutive year the agency nabbed the sixth spot.
He said of the win: “It’s something that we’re really proud of and we like this accolade in particular because it’s voted on by the team, so it’s a true reflection of how everyone feels about working for our agency.”
Harbison shared that while their offerings don’t compare to those of large corporate businesses, they focus on benefits that they see as value to their team.
“We try to have some additional offerings around maternity and paternity leave, and little things into our daily and monthly rhythms that make the team feel quite valued. I think that goes a long way, just recognition and just opportunity to receive kudos for all the little things that people do on a daily basis.”
Harbison said the recognition makes him feel proud to run a business where the people genuinely feel valued and happy.
“People are our biggest asset as an agency, and we have a human focus across the board, both internal and external. We’re all about making genuine connections with each other and also with our clients, and we definitely operate as a values-focused business.”
Equality Media + Marketing
Equality Media + Marketing claimed #17 in the micro category (under 30 employees).
Founder and Managing Director Marilla Akkermans said the award reflects Equality’s belief that culture is its greatest advantage.
“Culture isn’t a side project for us. It’s the foundation. When people feel supported and happy at work, they do their best work, and our clients feel that difference every day.
“This recognition means even more because it is based on the voices of our team. Their experience is the ultimate proof point that when you design a workplace around equity and care, productivity follows.”
The Media Store
Following close behind in the micro category was The Media Store at #21. The independent media agency, established in 1997, has attracted experienced staff who thrive on the freedom to explore and use a creative approach to achieve results for clients faster.
Jacquie Alley, Chief Operating Officer, told Mediaweek: “Those who have become part of the TMS work family often say there is something intangible, something truly special and unique about how people feel when they are here. Great culture isn’t about new policies, new initiatives, or fun perks. Whilst they are all important, they are not at the heart of what gives someone a great workplace experience.
“The Great Place to Work program is based upon the belief that great organisations are built on Trust, Pride, and Camaraderie, supported by a foundation of Fairness, Innovation, and Care.
“For us at The Media Store, this is what we strive to be – a place where everyone is truly seen and heard, where leadership communicates openly, where we punch above our weight in L&D opportunities, and we all feel part of the journey together. Whilst that may sound like hygiene, you’d be surprised how little it’s actually practiced.
Alley continued: “Shiny new programs and policies are rife in our industry, yet people are exiting in droves. We don’t profess to have it all right, but we do understand we are in the people business – relationships matter, wellbeing and performance go hand in hand, and a culture built on care, safety, and a true sense of belonging is foundational to great work for clients.
“We are delighted to be recognised on the Best Workplaces List for our third consecutive year, especially coming off the back of winning the AFR Boss Best Places to Work Belonging award. To be validated by independent frameworks across all sectors, beyond our own, is heartwarming.
“We are proud of our unwavering commitment to our people and to know they are happy to come to work to do great work makes it all worthwhile.” she added.
Rebecca Moulynox, Great Place to Work ANZ General Manager, said: “The 2025 Best Workplaces in Australia list represents organisations that understand culture is their greatest strategic asset.
“These companies have proven that when you build a workplace founded on trust, pride and camaraderie, you create the conditions for both employee flourishing and exceptional business performance.”