WA Seniors Awards

Suresh Rajan’s four-decade commitment to advocacy in Western Australia demonstrates his exceptional leadership and dedication to marginalised communities, especially in healthcare, immigration, and human rights. His tireless work for social justice has transformed lives, particularly for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CaLD) individuals. In healthcare, he has fought for reforms to prevent tragedies, supporting families like those of Aishwarya Aswath, Sandipan Dhar, and Monika Mann in their pursuit of justice. His advocacy has pressured the healthcare system towards greater accountability and transparency at both state and national levels.

Suresh has also made a profound impact in immigration, notably securing residency for families facing deportation, including the Biloela Family and Krishna, Aneesh, and Aryan. His advocacy extends to disability rights, where he pushed for legislative changes to protect people with disabilities. His work on multiple boards addresses critical issues like aged care, LGBTIQ+ rights, and anti-racism. Suresh’s enduring dedication and compassionate leadership exemplify the values of this award, with his work bringing lasting, positive change to countless lives.

Irene Davey is a much loved Bardi Jawi Elder from Ardyaloon. She has dedicated her life to preserving her culture and language. Born in 1940 on the Dampier Peninsula, she co-led her community’s return to Ardyaloon in 1972 alongside her late husband, Mr. D. Davey. A devoted mother of six, she took on leadership roles, including becoming the first Women’s Issues Officer with the Department of Aboriginal Affairs. In her 50s, she graduated in Community Development from Curtin University, embodying her belief that age is no barrier to achievement.

Aunty Irene has championed cultural education, teaching Bardi Jawi language at One Arm Point Community School, and advising on cultural protocols. She served as the Kimberley Land Council’s first female Cultural Adviser and currently advises the Department of Communities. Her influence spans local and national levels, representing her community at the Uluru Statement and as a cultural guide for the Wadjemup Project. Her biography, A Lifetime of Truth-telling, releases in 2025.

Switched on Seniors, has been bridging the digital divide for older Australians for 12 years by teaching them how to use mobile devices confidently. Supporting over 60 seniors weekly, this initiative emphasises continuous learning within a social and supportive setting.

Unlike typical tech programs, Switched on Seniors promotes a peer-to-peer model where participants stay until they’re confident enough to mentor others, creating a community of support. Sessions focus heavily on online safety, keeping seniors informed about the latest scams to protect against digital threats. With its relaxed, inclusive approach, the program fosters camaraderie and combats social isolation, enhancing participants' mental well-being. Expanding beyond Rockingham, Switched on Seniors has helped establish similar groups statewide and collaborates with public libraries and community organisations. Winner of the 2024 Incite Awards for Digital Inclusion, it exemplifies an age-friendly approach that empowers older Australians to stay connected and independent.

City of Bayswater is dedicated to creating an age-friendly environment through various programs and initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for older adults. Key community hubs, such as the Bayswater and Morley Community Centres, facilitate social engagement through initiatives like the ‘Chatty Café,’ which helps combat loneliness among seniors.

City of Bayswater’s library system offers free digital literacy courses, empowering older adults with essential skills and fostering independence. Bayswater's recreation centres provide ample opportunities for physical activity, including aqua aerobics and the Silver Sneakers program, promoting fitness at discounted rates.

Collaborating with the Council of The Ageing (COTA), the Morley Sport and Recreation Centre offers Strength for Life classes, improving seniors' strength and mobility. The RISE and Morley facilities host a free “Come and Try” Pickleball program, promoting exercise and community connections. With accessibility upgrades, Bayswater exemplifies a comprehensive, inclusive approach to supporting its older residents, making it a model for other local governments.

Christine Zambonetti is an exceptional advocate for older people, working with Advocare in Albany, WA. Her unwavering dedication to upholding the rights of seniors and raising awareness of elder abuse has significantly impacted the lives of vulnerable individuals in the Great Southern region. Through face-to-face outreach, Christine has reached isolated seniors, providing vital information, support, and connections to essential services.

She empowers older individuals to exercise their rights and make informed decisions while identifying gaps in local services to advocate for quality improvements. Christine has educated community members, service providers, and healthcare professionals on the signs of elder abuse and prevention strategies, fostering collaboration among local stakeholders.

Her efforts have led to increased access to support services, improved awareness of elder abuse, and ensured that the voices of older people in regional communities are heard. Balancing her advocacy with volunteer paramedic duties for St. John’s Ambulance, Christine's passion for standing up for marginalised groups, especially those living with dementia, makes her an outstanding candidate for the WA Seniors Advocate Award.