Hosted at The Westin Perth and presented by WAITTA, the 2025 INCITE Awards recognised excellence across the Western Australian technology landscape – from emerging startups to globally impactful companies.
The event was attended by more than 330 people, including Acting Premier and Minister for Science and Innovation the Hon. Stephen Dawson MLC, the Hon. Dr Parwinder Kaur MLC, and City of Perth Acting Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds.
2025 Achievers of the Year Tina Ambrose (left) and Kay Hargreaves (middle), with award presenter the Hon. Dr Parwinder Kaur MLC. Photo: Cohesion Co
Trailblazing gender equity leaders Tina Ambrose and Kay Hargreaves, immediate past co-chairs of Women in Technology WA (WiTWA), were named the 2025 Achievers of the Year. The award was presented to the duo by 2024 Achiever of the Year, the Hon. Dr Parwinder Kaur MLC, on behalf of WAITTA.
Under Tina and Kay's leadership, WiTWA has become a nationally and internationally recognised not-for-profit, reaching 8,000+ students, securing $2.4 million in funding, and creating a strong community of women, allies and changemakers in STEM.
Minister Dawson said of this year's awards:
“Western Australia is home to some of the most innovative minds in the country, and it’s a privilege to celebrate their achievements at the 34th INCITE Awards.
“As Minister for Science and Innovation, I’m proud to support programs such as INCITE that help WA’s talent thrive, drive economic growth, and ensure our state remains at the forefront of innovation.
"I’m particularly inspired by the recognition of leaders like Tina Ambrose and Kay Hargreaves from Women in Technology WA, named as the 2025 Achievers of the Year at the INCITE Awards. These two changemakers are transforming the face of our tech sector by empowering women and young people to see a future for themselves in STEM."
Norwood Systems emerged as a dual winner, securing both the prestigious Dr Mal Bryce Tech Company of the Year and the Research & Innovation (Industry) award.
Known for platforms like World Phone, CogVoice, and OpenSpan Call Protect - all developed locally - the company continues to be at the forefront of Western Australia's innovation economy through research, sustainability, and high-impact exports.
Pearcey Foundation Board Director Rick Harvey presents Chris Morrissey with the 2025 Western Australian Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Photo: WAITTA
Chris Morrissey, founder and CEO of managed security services provider (MSSP) Ever Nimble, was awarded the Pearcey Foundation WA Entrepreneur of the Year. Pearcey Foundation Board Director Rick Harvey travelled from Melbourne (Naarm) to Perth (Boorloo) to present the award.
A bold and values-driven leader, Chris has grown Ever Nimble into a global cyber security success story, with a reputation for delivering agile, customer-focused solutions. His leadership reflects the strength of Western Australia’s cyber security sector, and highlights the growing influence of local entrepreneurs on the national stage.
Ember Connect, a digital platform dedicated to empowering First Nations women, received the Digital Inclusion – Connected State Award, presented by the Office of Digital Government Western Australia.
Ember Connect empowers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women through a purpose-built online platform that blends cultural knowledge with contemporary digital engagement.
By fostering a safe, inclusive environment, Ember Connect has strengthened connection, leadership, and opportunity for more than 4,200 women to date. The platform bridges access to information, resources, and peer networks, helping women thrive both personally and professionally — a powerful example of how technology can support culturally safe spaces and drive lasting, meaningful change.
Acting Premier and Minister for Science and Innovation, the Hon. Stephen Dawson MLC, speaks at the 34th INCITE Awards on 18 July 2025 at The Westin Perth. Photo: Cohesion Co
With the INCITE Awards providing the regon with a pathway to the Australian iAwards, 13 technology innovation projects have been selected to represent Western Australia in this year's national competition.
Asset Engine was recognised with the Innovating Government Award, presented by the Office of Digital Government Western Australia.
This digital platform is redefining how government agencies manage critical infrastructure through intelligent automation and advanced
analytics, improving data accuracy, transparency, and strategic planning.
Norwood Systems claimed top honours in the Research & Innovation (Industry) category for its groundbreaking OpenSpan™ Call Protect solution — a real-time AI-driven defence against phone scams. The award was presented by Ron Costanzo on behalf of sponsor NRI Australia.
Using sophisticated voice and speech pattern analysis, Norwood’s discreet technology protects vulnerable users and institutions alike,
significantly reducing financial fraud and reputational risk. Its seamless integration and adaptive learning underline Norwood’s global
leadership in secure communications.
Curtin University researcher Ying Li was recognised for developing an AI-automated phonetic service that supports early diagnosis of speech sound disorders in children. The award was presented by Kevin Howell on behalf of M&T Resources.
In a state where thousands of children face long waits to access speech therapy, her innovation offers a powerful, scalable diagnostic tool
to accelerate intervention and improve lifelong communication outcomes.
Curtin
University's Kawu Balya was named the 2025 City of Perth Social Impact Award winner, with the accolade presented by Deputy Lord Mayor Bruce
Reynolds. Photo:
Coheson Co
Kawu Balya, developed by Curtin University's Healthy Connections, received the City of Perth Social Impact Award, presented on the night by Deputy Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds.
This culturally responsive mobile health app is designed to improve healthcare access in remote communities such as the Pilbara. The award winning team includes Andrew Maiorana, Cate Hollingsworth, Henry Truong, Jacob Arvino, Jim Hie Ling, Kit Yan Chan, Stefan Hofmann, Sonny Pham and Susannah Soon.
Created with and for Aboriginal users, the app enables individuals with limited clinic access to manage their health through personalised
tracking, QR code-enabled Medi-Kit integration, and tailored health and exercise recommendations.
Clear Carbon’s emissions intelligence platform delivers industry-leading accuracy — more than 90% — in tracking Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions across operations and supply chains.
Through intuitive dashboards and seamless system integration, it enables businesses to understand their carbon footprint and take targeted
action to meet ESG goals. This award cements Clear Carbon’s role as a trusted partner in Australia’s journey to net zero.
Li-ion Energy was named Startup of the Year, presented by StartupWA, for its innovative approach to battery reconditioning, delivering high-performance, affordable lithium batteries for e-mobility, energy storage, and industrial use.
At the forefront of the circular battery economy, the company extends battery lifespans, reduces e-waste, and significantly lessens the
environmental impact of traditional battery manufacturing.
Cody Dalliston has been recognised as WA’s Emerging Leader of the Year for his outstanding contributions to industrial automation at Roborigger while pursuing undergraduate studies at Curtin University.
Cody has played a central role in engineering safer, smarter lifting systems that reduce risks on construction and logistics sites
worldwide. His leadership, innovation mindset, and industry impact make him one to watch.
“This year’s winners reflect the depth, diversity, and ambition of Western Australia’s innovation ecosystem, from global tech leaders to emerging founders and community changemakers. The strong presence of MedTech, Life Sciences, and sustainability-focused initiatives shows how WA talent is stepping up to solve some of our most pressing challenges, with boldness and impact," Cameron said.
"Our 2025 finalists represent the changing face of technology in this state: One that is a more inclusive, vibrant sector that embraces the contributions of First Nations peoples, women, youth, LGBTQIA+ and culturally diverse communities. Many of this year’s nominees have drawn on personal experience to create solutions that are not only technically brilliant, but deeply human. We commend every entrant for their courage, creativity, and dedication to making a difference," Jess said.
"To our winners and merit recipients: congratulations!" the Co-Chairs said "You now have the opportunity to represent Western Australia at the national iAwards, and potentially on the world stage at the Asia-Pacific ICT Alliance (APICTA) Awards later this year. We’re excited to watch your continued success.”
Minister Dawson added: "Thank you to the INCITE Awards steward, WAITTA, for delivering a fantastic platform for Western Australian technology and innovation."
The INCITE Awards are Western Australia's premier technology awards program, celebrating excellence and innovation across the technology sector. Here are some compelling reasons to nominate your project:
As well as this, all INCITE nominees are offered automatic placement with business peer-to-peer mentoring program, Mentor it Forward, as well as ongoing support through brand and marketing assets and training webinars, discounted awards night tickets and much more.
News
WAITTA
INCITE Awards
