- Winners announced for Consumer Protection Awards
2026
- Honours for financial counsellors, youth nicotine-addiction
program, media stories
- Awards recognise and celebrate contributions to
protecting consumers in WA
A
financial counsellor working across more than 40 Aboriginal communities, a peak
body strengthening financial wellbeing across Western Australia and a program
protecting young people from nicotine addiction are among the winners of the
2026 Consumer Protection Awards.
The ceremony to recognise
and celebrate contributions to consumer protection in WA was held at a
presentation this morning ahead of World Consumer Rights Day on Sunday.
Marcel Sithole, a financial
counsellor and service manager based in Fitzroy Crossing, took out the award
for an individual who has given their time, energy and experience for the
betterment of others. Since 2021, Marcel has delivered life‑changing consumer
protection outcomes across more than 40 remote Aboriginal communities in the
Fitzroy Valley, combining preventative education with support for people in financial
hardship.
Sen Amaratunga, the only
qualified general and small‑business financial counsellor based in Broome, was
a finalist in this category.
The Financial
Counsellors' Association of Western Australia (FCAWA) was honoured with an award
for a local government authority, non‑government organisation or group for
their services, initiative or project. FCAWA represents and accredits financial
counsellors and capability workers across metropolitan, regional and remote
areas, and delivers training, professional development, policy expertise and
major regional forums.
Finalists in this
category were Consumer Credit Legal Service (WA) Inc and Circle Green Community
Legal.
The Kidsafe WA Award went
to Clear the Air, Cancer Council WA's program aimed at protecting young Western
Australians from nicotine addiction by reducing vaping, smoking and the use of
new nicotine and tobacco products. The initiative raises awareness, encourages
quitting, builds the capacity of youth‑focused professionals and advocates for
strengthened legislative reforms to create a healthier future for young people.
ABC journalist Erin Parke
won the media award, which recognises a journalist, producer or media outlet
for raising awareness and improving understanding of consumer issues. Erin's
reporting has helped bring attention to challenges faced by consumers in remote
Aboriginal communities.
Finalists in this
category were ABC Radio Perth presenter Nadia Mitsopoulos, ABC radio producer
and journalist Alicia Hanson and investigative journalist John Flint.
Further information on
the Awards is on the Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and
Safety's Consumer Protection website: https://www.consumerprotection.wa.gov.au/western-australian-consumer-protection-awards
Comments attributed to Commerce Minister Dr Tony Buti:
"These awards shine a
light on the people and organisations who devote themselves to protecting
consumers and promoting fair treatment.
"The achievements of this
year's winners and finalists demonstrate the impact that dedicated advocacy and
education can have across our community.
"The financial
counselling sector is incredibly important with the current cost of living
pressures, and we appreciate the significant contributions made by all our
finalists.
"I warmly congratulate
the 2026 recipients and finalists and thank them for their commitment to
safeguarding the rights of Western Australians."
