Recognising the voices making a difference for WA consumers

Across the Western Australian community, countless individuals and organisations dedicate themselves to supporting and empowering consumers, whether through education, advocacy, promoting product safety, or driving change.

The search is on for outstanding WA individuals, organisations and groups who are strong advocates for consumer rights, with nominations now open for the prestigious Consumer Protection Awards.

Now in its 21st year, the awards shine a spotlight on the great and important work being carried out in the community such as 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 creating a greater understanding of consumer law, improving complaints and dispute processes, and influencing policy reform.

There are four categories: Rona Okely – for individuals; Richard (Dick) Fletcher – for groups, services or projects; Ruby Hutchison Media – for stand out media and Kidsafe WA – for individuals or groups raising awareness for product safety and injury prevention for children.

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

Winners from the 2024 Consumer Protection Awards included a project that empowers 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.

If you know an incredible person or group doing amazing work to benefit the community and contribute positively to consumer protection in WA, consider nominating them for an award. It’s a great way to recognise those making a real difference in the lives of WA consumers and tenants.

Nomination forms can be completed on the Consumer Protection Awards website www.consumerprotection.wa.gov.au and will close on Thursday October 30, 2025.

For enquiries, contact the Consumer Protection Awards Coordinator on 1300 30 40 54 or email cpawards@lgirs.wa.gov.au

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Trish Blake
Trish Blake is the Commissioner for Consumer Protection. Previously the Director of Retail and Services, Trish also worked in the Legislation and Policy Directorate of Consumer Protection for more than 12 years. As a passionate advocate for residential tenancies, scam prevention, human rights and product safety, Trish welcomes the opportunity to speak on these important issues. Trish has a law degree and is admitted to practice in Western Australia. She also has a degree with Honours in Social Work and a Post Graduate qualification in Public Policy and taught in the Murdoch University’s International Human Rights program for a number of years. This involved taking a cohort of university students from across Australia to Geneva where students get to see first-hand the United Nations and various other bodies in action and where they learn how human rights laws are made and how they are enforced. Prior to working for the Department, Trish spent many years working in Community Legal Centres in WA.