- 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 lifechanging 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 smallbusiness 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, nongovernment 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 youthfocused 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
As stated by 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.”
