WA’s Top Innovators Recognised at 2025 WA Innovators of the Year Awards

Western Australia’s entrepreneurial spirit took centre stage last night as the 2025 WA Innovators of the Year Awards recognised nine winners and two runners-up, who collectively shared in more than $280,000 in prize money.

From breakthrough medical treatments to autonomous vessel control and fashion-forward protective eyewear, the diversity of innovations highlighted the strength of WA’s growing innovation economy.

Record year for WA innovation

Now in its 19th year, the awards attracted a record 130 applications — a sign of the sector’s momentum and maturity. The program honours individuals and businesses transforming ideas into real-world solutions that improve lives and contribute to a stronger, more diversified state economy.

Science and Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson said the event showcased the state’s capacity to lead in both creativity and commercialisation.

“Western Australians are leading the way in developing new ideas and technologies that solve real problems and create opportunities for our State,” Mr Dawson said. “The WA Innovators of the Year program not only celebrates these achievements but gives local startups and entrepreneurs the support they need to grow, connect, and commercialise their ideas.”

Standout winners and emerging talent

This year’s cohort represented a cross-section of sectors including health, mining, and advanced manufacturing. Notable innovations included a new treatment for insulin resistance, a precision-guided drill for underground operations, a software-first, hardware-agnostic platform enabling vessels to operate remotely or autonomously, and a range of designer protective eyewear.

The introduction of the Young Entrepreneurs Academy of WA Young Innovators of the Year Award added a new dimension to the program, celebrating the creativity of high school-aged entrepreneurs. The inaugural winner, Medi Manage, was recognised for developing a SMART Bluetooth-enabled pill dispenser and companion mobile app, designed to simplify medication management for patients and carers alike.

Building WA’s innovation pipeline

All finalists participated in the program’s Accelerator initiative, which provides mentoring, workshops, and practical training to help innovators refine their ideas and bring them closer to market.

Mr Dawson said the awards and accompanying program play a critical role in fostering the next generation of founders.

“With record participation this year and the introduction of the Young Innovators category, it’s clear that WA’s innovation pipeline is strong and the future is full of promise,” he said. “The Cook Government is proud to be supporting this celebration of innovation and talent through our New Industries and Innovation Fund.”

Full list of winners