Join us on World Mental Health Day, as we celebrate the individuals, initiatives and organisations that have made outstanding contributions to mental health in Western Australia.


From more than 100 nominations across nine categories, we’re thrilled to announce the finalists for the 2025 WA Mental Health Awards!


Minister's Award

Sponsored by the State Government

  • Brian Gallop
  • Karri Ambler
  • Prof Penelope Hasking
  • Sarah Papaelias
  • Dr Tania Botha 

Lived Experience Impact & Inspiration Award 

Sponsored by the Mental Health Commission

  • Amanda Aiyana
  • Elaine Ashurst
  • Michael Elwan
  • Rachel Burns
  • Soa Palelei

Mental Health Employee or Volunteer Excellence Award 

Sponsored by Lotterywest

  • Graham Hughes
  • Helen Tomlinson
  • Jonah Palelei
  • Samantha Mills
  • Vernon Dann

Innovation in Service Delivery Award

Sponsored by Youth Focus

  • Attachment & Biobehavioral Catch-up Program by NGALA
  • Deadly Minds Matter by Shooting Stars
  • Healthy Liyan by Garnduwa Amboorny Wirnan Aboriginal Corporation
  • Raphael Services by St John of God
  • The Luminos Project by Samaritans WA, Ruah Community Services, The Telethon Kids Institute and University of Western Australia

Promotion or Prevention Award 

Sponsored by MercyCare

  • ForWhen by NGALA
  • Safe Community Living Program by Plan and Grow
  • Road Trauma Support WA by Injury Matters
  • True Sport Mental Health & Wellbeing by Sport West
  • WA Cricket

Diversity & Inclusion Award 

Sponsored by Roshana Care Group

  • Garnduwa Amboorny Wirnan Aboriginal Corporation
  • Hope Affirm Thrive
  • Thriving in Motion
  • What Were You Wearing Australia
  • Wungening Aboriginal Corporation

Mental Health Education Award 

Sponsored by Hope Community Services

  • Forest Cresent Primary School
  • John Tonkin College
  • School of Special Educational Needs: Medical and Mental Health
  • The Y School
  • UWA Guild Student Assist

Mentally Healthy Workplace Award

Sponsored by Edge Employment Solutions

  • Avivo
  • Life Without Barriers
  • My Way Community Alliance
  • Strong Minds, Strong Mines
  • Talison Lithium
  • WA Cricket

News & Media Award

Sponsored by the Western Australian Association for Mental Health

  • Embracing the Mind podcast by Jack Boronovskis and Dr Alix Woolard
  • Taboo Education by Samantha Waite


Want to join the celebration?

Secure your seat at our gala celebration and help us honour the 2025 award winners.

Find out more and book your ticket now.