Time to nominate consumer protection champions

Last updated: 26 September 2025

  • The 2026 Consumer Protection Awards are now accepting nominations
  • Advocates, educators and media invited to nominate
  • Cash prizes for winners of individual, organisation and group categories

The hunt is underway for exceptional individuals, organisations, groups and media outlets that champion consumer rights in Western Australia, with nominations now open for the 21st Consumer Protection Awards.

Each category winner will receive a $2,500 cash prize, a trophy and a certificate, presented by Commerce Minister Tony Buti on Friday 13 March 2026.

The awards honour individuals and groups who have significantly advanced consumer protection – whether by educating the public on tenancy, scams, debts and contracts, promoting safe product use to prevent childhood injuries, or advocating for vulnerable consumers. They also recognise achievements in raising awareness, improving complaints and dispute processes, and influencing policy reform.

Nominees will join a distinguished cohort of past recipients, including the 2024 winners –a project that empower tenants with disabilities to prevent evictions and reduce homelessness, a financial counsellor who works with vulnerable Aboriginal communities in remote areas, and a regional journalist who reported on cruise refund issues that prompted a class action and improved accountability.

There are four award categories:

  • Rona Okely Award – for an individual who has given their time, energy and experience to influence and inspire consumer protection in their community
  • Richard (Dick) Fletcher Award – for a local government, non-government organisation or group that has delivered services, initiatives or projects with the aim to build community awareness of consumer protection issues
  • Kidsafe WA Award – for an individual, local government, non-government organisation, business or group that focuses on raising awareness of product safety and injury prevention for children
  • Ruby Hutchison Media Award – for a journalist, producer, program or media outlet that raises awareness and boosts understanding of consumer protection issues.

Commissioner for Consumer Protection Trish Blake said the awards offered a valuable opportunity to recognise those making a real difference in the lives of WA consumers and tenants.

“Across our community, countless individuals and organisations dedicate themselves to supporting and empowering consumers – whether through education, advocacy, promoting product safety, or driving change,” Ms Blake said.

“If you or someone you know is doing inspiring work in this space, I encourage you to submit a nomination. Whether it’s an individual, a business or a community group – this is your chance to ensure their contribution is recognised.”

Nominations can be submitted via the Consumer Protection Awards website and will close at 5pm on Friday 31 October 2025.

 

Media Contact: cpmedia@lgirs.wa.gov.au