2025 Achievement Awards

Monitoring and Evaluation of Boorloo Bidee Mia
Department of Communities

Boorloo Bidee Mia (BBM) provides low-threshold accommodation for people experiencing homelessness and rough sleeping, combined with tailored and responsive support.

The Department of Communities (Communities) in collaboration with the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute and Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre at Curtin University led a Monitoring and Evaluation Framework, Process and Summative Evaluation of BBM from 2021 to 2024. Communities worked collaboratively with BBM’s Service Providers – Wungening Aboriginal Corporation and Noongar Mia Mia to deliver the work.

The evaluations findings indicated that BBM was effective, appropriate, value for money and identified lessons learned and recommendations for improvement of BBM.

The Process In Defining The Evaluation of Aged Accommodation to Support Seniors to Age in Place
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

In 2024, DPIRD led a consultative evaluation to assess whether regional housing investments supported seniors to age in place. The process began with a department-wide prioritisation framework and continued through collaboration with shires, Regional Development Commissions, Country Health, and senior residents.

The evaluation examined three major programs across six regions and engaged 76 stakeholders. It identified critical success factors for delivering affordable, accessible aged accommodation and informed future investment decisions. This project demonstrates best practice in participatory, theory-informed evaluation and highlights DPIRD’s commitment to evidence-based policy that supports the wellbeing of seniors in regional Western Australia.

WA Digital Inclusion Project
Western Australian Council of Social Service (WACOSS)

The WA Digital Inclusion Project is transforming communities by addressing the digital divide through a strategic focus on Access, Ability, and Affordability. This cross-sector initiative partners with government agencies and community service organisations, including housing, disability, aged care, multicultural, youth, and Aboriginal community-controlled services, to reach those most at risk of digital exclusion.

By building digital confidence and capability, the project empowers individuals to participate fully in an increasingly digital society. Its community-led model demonstrates best practice in digital transformation. The project is led by WACOSS and funded by Lotterywest.

WA Health Data Platform
Health Support Services, Department of Health 

The WA Health Data Platform (WA HDP) is a foundational digital transformation initiative modernising the way data is managed, governed, and shared across the Western Australian public health system. It delivers a secure, scalable enterprise data platform that provides structured, governed, and interoperable data to support clinical care, operational efficiency, research, and system-wide decision-making.

The WA HDP reshapes how data is accessed, governed, and used across the WA public health system. It reduces duplication and modernises infrastructure. HDP supports enhanced service delivery by enabling timely, trusted access to real-time data that underpins frontline decision-making across the WA health system.

Thriving in Motion
Thriving in Motion 

Thriving in Motion’s Youth Moves program champions LGBTQIA+ inclusion (specifically trans and gender diverse young folk) through gender-affirming physical activity for at-risk youth aged 15–25. Co-designed with LGBTQIA+ young people, families, and partners like TransFolk WA and PICYS, it fosters safe, empowering spaces for movement.

Supported by inclusive policies, LGBTQIA+ and ally staff, and our Inclusive Movement Practices course, the program builds lasting impact. With 100% of participants feeling safe and 98% motivated to return, Youth Moves is a proven, community-led model promoting wellbeing, inclusion, and physical literacy for LGBTQIA+ youth.

First Responder Thrive at Work Prevent Harm Toolkit Project
Mental Health Commission; Future of Work Institute, Curtin University; Department of Fire and Emergency Services; Western Australia Police Force; Department of Justice; Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions; St John WA

The First Responder Working Group (FRWG) developed the First Responder Thrive at Work Prevent Harm Toolkit project to improve the mental health and wellbeing of first responders through evidence-based prevention and system-level work design strategies.

This involved the FRWG partnering with Curtin University’s Future of Work Institute to co-design customised toolkits and training packages to mitigate psychosocial risks and foster safe and supportive workplaces.

The FRWG is chaired by the Mental Health Commission and includes membership from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, WA Police Force, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Department of Justice and St John WA.

1800 4 Choice
Sexual Health Quarters, Women and Newborn Health Services

1800 4 Choice is a free, confidential helpline and website offering non-judgmental, evidence-based information on abortion and reproductive healthcare in Western Australia. Led by experienced nurses, it helps people understand their options, connect with providers, and make informed decisions.

Accessible by phone, webchat, and an interactive provider map, the service is user-friendly and supportive. Developed by Sexual Health Quarters (SHQ) in partnership with the Women and Newborn Health Service (WNHS), 1800 4 Choice was launched in line with the Abortion Legislation Reform Act 2023 (WA) to improve access and promote reproductive autonomy across the state.

Wadjemup Wirin Bidi
Wadjemup Project Steering Group; Aboriginal Productions and Promotions; Rottnest Island Authority

Wadjemup Wirin Bidi was a Cultural Ceremony for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people to gather together to facilitate healing and commemorate all those affected by the incarceration of Aboriginal men and boys on Wadjemup.

It was a key milestone of the Aboriginal-led Wadjemup Project, facilitated by Rottnest Island Authority (RIA) and supported by the Department of Premier and Cabinet.

RIA worked closely with the Wadjemup Project Steering Group and Aboriginal people to facilitate large-scale, statewide consultation and implement the week-long ceremonial event in November 2024.

It showcased effective collaboration between government and other organisations to implement a major act of reconciliation.

Energy Ahead – Helping Customers Take Control of Their Energy Use and Bills Through Free Energy Coaching and Workshops
Financial Wellbeing Collective; Synergy; Horizon; Energy Policy WA

Energy Ahead is a Western Australian Climate Policy initiative, in partnership with Energy Policy WA, Synergy and delivered by the Financial Wellbeing Collective (FWC). The FWC is a unique collaboration of 12 not-for-profit community organisations and local government, delivering integrated, person-centred support to Western Australians experiencing financial hardship.

As at 30 April 2025, 4661 people received assistance with free energy coaching, to improve energy literacy, reduce energy costs and encourage energy efficient behaviours. By addressing critical community needs, Energy Ahead empowers vulnerable households, strengthens financial resilience and delivers hands-on solutions towards preventing and reducing utility stress in Western Australian communities.

Western Australia Wastewater Surveillance Program
Communicable Disease Control Directorate and Environmental Health (WA Department of Health); PathWest; Water Corporation; Boorloo Public Health Unit (North Metropolitan Health Service) and WA Country Health Service (WACHS)

WA was the first jurisdiction in Australia to develop and implement wastewater-based genomic sequencing for SARS-CoV-2 variants during the COVID-19 pandemic. This allowed the detection of emerging strains—such as Omicron sub-lineages—before widespread clinical confirmation.

The WA wastewater surveillance program has since expanded to include influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and other reemerging pathogens and emerging pathogens such as poliovirus, measles, Japanese encephalitis virus and monkeypox virus. This innovative method of surveillance is capable of detecting as few as one case in populations of hundreds and thousands which can provide real-time insight to support public health decisions.

Special Commendation: Aboriginal Justice Open Days – Department of Justice and partner organisations.

Next Generation Warnings Project
Department of Fire and Emergency Services

The Next Generation Warnings project has delivered the greatest reform of emergency public information in the State’s history including the first-ever Emergency WA app, new website and implementation of the Australian Warning System (AWS).

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services Public Information team has embraced innovation to deliver nation-leading features informed by extensive research and community feedback.

Significant engagement has boosted awareness and acceptance of the AWS, while Emergency WA cements its place as WA’s trusted, official source for emergency information.

This project has delivered faster and more accurate warnings, empowering people to make life-saving decisions when it counts.

Spoilbank Marina Project
Pilbara Ports (Lead and Nominator); Department of Transport; Town of Port Hedland; Pilbara Development Commission; DevelopmentWA

The Spoilbank Marina (Pirra Pirra) in Port Hedland is a major community infrastructure initiative managed and delivered by Pilbara Ports on behalf of the Western Australian State Government, in collaboration with the Department of Transport, Town of Port Hedland, Pilbara Development Commission, and DevelopmentWA. .

The Marina was funded by the State Government, ToPH and BHP.  The delivery of the $187.5 million Marina has created a new amenity for the community and visitors to enjoy. It provides the Hedland community and visitors with a vibrant new space, as well as enhancing safety for recreational boaters.

Friends of Fremantle Ports Volunteer Program
Fremantle Ports

Our Friends of Fremantle Ports volunteering program was launched in October 2020.   The program has assisted Fremantle Ports to further strengthen transformative relationships with local communities, build awareness and understanding of the Inner Harbour and Kwinana Port, create a cohort of in-community ‘ambassadors’ for Fremantle Ports and utilise volunteering in a strategic manner to amplify our current social licence capability. The program has been an outstanding success and embraced by our community increasing from twelve volunteers to 16 in 2023.

Aboriginal Cultural Framework 2024-2034
Department of Communities

In November 2024, the Department of Communities (Communities) launched the Aboriginal Cultural Framework 2024–2034 (the Framework) alongside Implementation Plan One 2024–2026, marking a significant milestone in the Department’s cultural reform journey.

This initiative is a key deliverable of the Aboriginal Cultural Capability Reform Program and strategically aligns with the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, the Aboriginal Empowerment Strategy 2021–2029, and the Department of Communities Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation Strategy 2022–2032.

Active in the Park
City of Melville

Active in the Park is the City of Melville’s outdoor fitness initiative, offering free and low-cost classes to support healthy, active lifestyles in a welcoming, inclusive setting. Delivered year-round in local parks and now self-funded through the City’s LeisureFit service, the program caters to all ages and abilities, including a seated class for people with mobility challenges.

With strong participation, demonstrated community impact, and expanding partnerships with organisations such as Mentally Healthy WA, LiveLighter, and the Blue Tree Project, this initiative is a best-practice model in local government health promotion and sustainable community well-being.

Central Great Southern Dental Health Project
Department of Health; Department of Communities; Department of Education; Minderoo Foundation

The Early Years Partnership Dental Health Project in Central Great Southern region of Western Australia exemplifies best practice in collaborative partnerships for health and wellbeing, particularly within rural and Aboriginal communities.

Through this community-led place-based approach, the project offers an example of how dental services can be culturally safe and responsive to the needs of families, while also supporting long-term workforce development through student placements.

The Dental Project has adopted and demonstrated best practice in community engagement, cultural safety, health innovation, and rural service delivery to establish a now sustainable collaborative service model.

DTMI’s Pride Reach Out Group
Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure

The Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure’s (DTMI) Pride Reach Out group was established in 2021 to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for LGBTQIA+ employees.

Starting with just three members, the group has grown to more than 70 proud, passionate and enthusiastic employees representing the LGBTQIA+ community and their allies.

The group collaborates with Transport Portfolio partners and external stakeholders to organise and participate in events and initiatives to promote DTMI as a safe and welcoming organisation.

Through passionate advocacy and consistent efforts, the group continues to make a meaningful difference within DTMI and across the wider community.

Broome Residential College – ‘My Place, My Future’ Project
Department of Education

Broome Residential College’s ‘My place, my future’ project has demonstrated excellence in cultural responsiveness through deep listening and consultation. The campaign insight ‘My place, my future’ was identified as strength-based language that enabled student voice and provided a new and authentic creative platform.

The marketing campaign has successfully raised the College’s profile as an attractive boarding option for secondary students in Broome, among prospective residents and their families in the regional and remote communities of northwest Western Australia – and continues to significantly drive enrolments today.

Complaints Management Improvement Project
Child and Adolescent Health Service

A continued focus at CAHS has been to identify pathways to better understand the needs of our children and young people, particularly those from diverse backgrounds who access our services.

CAHS identified that it receives limited feedback from children and young people, and subsequently undertook a Complaints Management Improvement Project, working in partnership with young people and caregivers of various backgrounds through a co-designed approach to develop engaging resources, improve complaint handling processes and access to support, and strengthen staff training and investigation procedures.

The Project has led to an ongoing increase in feedback directly received from young people.

Smart Drainage Initiative for Flood Mitigation
City of Gosnells

The City of Gosnells is leading proactive flood mitigation in Australia, harnessing smart drainage solutions and cutting-edge technology to protect the community. From flood sensor alerts to a state-of-the-art drainage CCTV robot, in-house pipe relining to ground-penetrating radar, the City has implemented a comprehensive array of measures to mitigate blockages, repair pipes and address sinkholes with minimal disruption.

These initiatives ensure that over 870km of drainage infrastructure functions efficiently, safeguarding roads and homes, and protecting lives and livelihoods.

Western Australia Wastewater Surveillance Program
Communicable Disease Control Directorate and Environmental Health (WA Department of Health); PathWest; Water Corporation; Boorloo Public Health Unit (North Metropolitan Health Service) and WA Country Health Service (WACHS)

WA was the first jurisdiction in Australia to develop and implement wastewater-based genomic sequencing for SARS-CoV-2 variants during the COVID-19 pandemic. This allowed the detection of emerging strains—such as Omicron sub-lineages—before widespread clinical confirmation.

The WA wastewater surveillance program has since expanded to include influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and other reemerging pathogens and emerging pathogens such as poliovirus, measles, Japanese encephalitis virus and monkeypox virus.

This innovative method of surveillance is capable of detecting as few as one case in populations of hundreds and thousands which can provide real-time insight to support public health decisions.

Kings Park Plant Development
Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority

The Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority (BGPA), a statutory authority within DBCA, has led conservation and horticultural innovation in Western Australia for over 60 years. Situated in the globally significant plant biodiversity centre of Kings Park, BGPA’s Plant Development program harnesses the resilience of local flora to produce ornamental cultivars with extended flowering and drought tolerance.

With the world’s largest collection of WA native plant material, BGPA integrates scientific research, horticultural expertise, and novel techniques to promote sustainable and climate-resilient landscapes. Its work inspires global appreciation of WA’s unique flora while addressing environmental challenges through innovation and collaboration.

Health Justice Partnership
Department of Health; Women’s Legal Service Western Australia

The Department of Health, in collaboration with the Women’s Legal Service WA (WLSWA), has launched a Health Justice Partnership Pilot (HJP), an innovative initiative aimed at addressing women’s interconnected social, legal, and health needs.

The WLSWA HJP reaches women who may otherwise not have access to legal services, by embedding a lawyer in women’s health care centres, which innovatively addresses their health harming legal needs. The WLSWA HJP fosters relationship-based service agreements, supports innovation, and ensures culturally appropriate, sustainable service delivery through genuine stakeholder engagement to reach women who may otherwise not have access to meet their health-harming legal needs.

Ruby’s: A Youth Homelessness Prevention Program
Parkerville Children and Youth Care

Ruby’s WA, delivered by Parkerville Children and Youth Care, is a pioneering early intervention program addressing youth homelessness through therapeutic accommodation and intensive family counselling. Launched in 2024, it challenges traditional crisis models by focusing on safe family reunification and long-term wellbeing.

Grounded in trauma-informed care and supported by rigorous evaluation, Ruby’s WA has already demonstrated measurable outcomes in family restoration, emotional resilience, and school engagement. Its innovative, evidence-based approach is transforming service delivery in Western Australia and setting a new benchmark for youth homelessness prevention.

WA Virtual Emergency Department
WA Virtual Emergency Department, State Health Operations Centre; St John WA

The WA Virtual Emergency Department (WAVED) connects patients with experienced emergency clinicians for virtual medical assessments and referrals to the care they need in the community, at home, or hospital rather than waiting in an emergency department (ED).

By providing clinically appropriate alternative care options, WAVED eases system pressures by reducing the use of ambulances and EDs without compromising care.

WAVED falls within the State Health Operations Centre (SHOC), a state-of-the-art, multi-agency hub designed to enhance emergency care coordination across WA. WAVED works towards achieving SHOC’s mission of delivering the right care, in the right place, at the right time.

Hybrid Procurement Model
South Metropolitan Health Service

The South Metropolitan Health Service (SMHS) Hybrid Procurement Model (HPM) launched July 2023, revolutionised procurement and contract management by blending centralised oversight with decentralised execution. Addressing low staff capability and budget constraints, HPM introduced mandatory Procurement Initiation Document reviews, a centralised advisory function, and strategic contract management, ensuring compliance with WA Procurement Rules.

It delivered millions in potential savings, enhanced portfolio visibility, actively engages Aboriginal businesses, aligning with social procurement goals. Stakeholder roadshows, tailored training, and a resource library boosted capability and trust, earning high satisfaction. HPM exemplifies innovative, cost-effective procurement, driving value and outcomes for SMHS and WA Health.