2025 in Review: 34th INCITE Awards

WAITTA › About us › Annual Reports › 2025 › 2025 in Review: 34th INCITE Awards

2025 in Review: 34th INCITE Awards

The 34th INCITE Awards was, by every measure, our strongest year yet.

On 18 July 2025, more than 330 people filled The Westin Perth to celebrate Western Australia's most exciting technology and innovation talent. The night delivered something we'd been working toward for years - not just a great event, but a great program.

From 57 nominations, Chief Judge Glenn Butcher and Deputy Chief Judge Celia Jordaan shortlisted 47 finalists. On gala night, we saw 19 Western Australians win or receive merits - the latter is awarded when someone is within five percent of the winning solution.

From WA's INCITE, six Western Australians won at the national iAwards; three went on to the Asia-Pacific ICT Alliance Awards (APICTA) in Taiwan, and one won Gold - Norwood Systems.

Our post-event experience score reached 8.7 out of 10, the first meaningful shift in almost three years, and a result we're genuinely proud of.

But INCITE was never just one night or about a score. It's a 12-month program powered by WAITTA volunteers, and 2025 reflected that in every detail.

Jess Etheridge

Program Co-Chair

Cameron Zivkovic

Program Co-Chair

Numbers that matter

330+

Attendees at The Westin Perth

8.7/10

Post-event experience score

13

WA projects participated in the iAwards

3

Teams at APICTA Awards

A field reflecting WA's true innovation depth

We opened nominations in January, welcomed the community to a launch event in February, and spent months supporting nominees through judging, coaching, and marketing masterclasses - giving every entrant tools to tell their story, not just enter a competition.

By July, we had a field of finalists that reflected the true depth of WA's innovation ecosystem: startups tackling battery waste, researchers detecting speech disorders in children, platforms empowering First Nations women, and AI solutions protecting vulnerable people from phone scams.

The 2025 field also reflected something broader happening in WA tech: a sector becoming more inclusive, more diverse, and more deeply connected to community impact.

This year's finalists drew on lived experience to build solutions that were technically brilliant and deeply human - from MedTech and sustainability to digital inclusion and culturally safe platforms.

The winners spoke for themselves

The 2025 winners demonstrated the breadth and caliber of innovation emerging from Western Australia, with recognition extending from local success to national and international acclaim.

Norwood Systems

Tech Company of the Year & Research & Innovation (Industry)

Won a Merit at the national iAwards and then won Gold in Industrial and Infrastructure Solutions Award at the Asia-Pacific ICT Alliance (APICTA) Awards in Kaohsiung. Their OpenSpan™ Call Protect technology is now internationally recognised, and proudly made in WA.

Tina Ambrose & Kay Hargreaves

Achievers of the Year

Recognition well overdue for two changemakers from Women in Technology Western Australia (WiTWA) who have reached 8,000+ students and raised $2.4 million to grow women's participation in STEM.

Even more special was having the 2024 Achiever of the Year, the Hon. Dr Parwinder Kaur MLC, present the award to Tina and Kay.

Cody Dalliston

Emerging Leader

Recognised at INCITE for Roborigger, an autonomous robotic racking system designed to improve safety and efficiency in mining operations. Cody then carried that momentum to the national iAwards, winning the Student & Education Award outright.

A 12-Month Program, Powered by Volunteers

January

Nominations Open

February

Launch Event

March – June

Judging, Coaching & Masterclasses

July 18

Gala Awards Night

Thank you for backing WA tech innovation

To every winner, merit recipient, finalist, sponsor, judge, and volunteer: this program exists because of you. You are what INCITE is for.

Sponsors, VIPs & Partners: Your support made this program possible.

Judges: Your expertise shaped the field and elevated every submission. Thank you Chief Judge Glenn Butcher and Deputy Chief Judge Celia Jordaan.

Volunteers: Powered entirely by WAITTA volunteers over 12 months. Thank you INCITE committee.

Finalists & Innovators: Your courage to challenge convention inspires us all.

Looking ahead: 35th INCITE Awards

We step into the 2026 INCITE Awards, our milestone 35th program, with momentum, pride, and a clear sense of what this program can be - for WA, and for the world.

13 WA projects earned entry into the 2025 iAwards. Three teams represented Australia at APICTA. That's a record.

As we look toward the next chapter, we carry with us the lessons of 2025: that a great program is built on great people, that meaningful change takes time, and that Western Australia's innovation ecosystem continues to produce work that matters, on the national stage and beyond.

Thank you.

Jess Etheridge & Cameron Zivkovic

Co-Chair | INCITE Awards 2025


Related News


President's reflections: Dawn of a new era for WAITTA

With WAITTA announcing a new name, President Con Polkinghorne reflects on what the change means for the 34-year-old Alliance.


WAITTA Reimagined: Meet the Western Australian Innovation, Technology & Talent Alliance

Not-for-profit WAITTA begins a new era in its 34-year history: Adopting a new name, the Western Australian Innovation, Technology & Talent Alliance.


2025 putt4dough sold out; guest speaker announced

Western Australia’s technology community is gearing up for the 15th putt4dough charity fundraiser this November, with all player group teams now sold out and the evening's guest speaker revealed.


WAITTA appoints global health technology leader Anita Ghose to Board of Directors

WAITTA has appointed Adjunct Professor Anita Ghose, a leading voice in digital transformation and health technology, to its Board of Directors.


Video: Nurturing talent with the National Institute of Technology

Thanks to the National Institute of Technology, a Game Changer Awards Platinum Sponsor, we’re backing the next generation of leaders and changemakers.


How to turn classroom projects into real-world change: A student’s guide to the Game Changer Awards

Read our guide on how high school students can align their Game Changer Awards STEM projects with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.


Video: Innovating a brighter future with Edith Cowan University

"The Game Changer Awards is a really great opportunity to see the next generation of innovators, STEM professionals and inspiring bright minds here on our campus, showcasing their skills and talents."


Video: Empowering students with STEM and Kinetic IT

Thanks to Kinetic IT, a WAITTA Platinum Sponsor, more of the next generation of Western Australian leaders are embracing STEM to create innovative solutions to global challenges.


WA tech leaders honoured at INCITE Awards in Perth

Western Australian biotechnologist Associate Professor Dr Parwinder Kaur has been awarded Achiever of the Year at the 33rd INCITE Awards.


INCITE Awards celebrate WA's leaders in innovation & diversity

The 34th INCITE Awards have recognised achievements across Western Australia's technology sector, with major honours going to gender equity champions Tina Ambrose and Kay Hargreaves, and local technology company Norwood Systems.


In The News: Chris Morrissey wins WA Pearcey award for tech leadership

Chris Morrissey, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Ever Nimble, has been named the 2025 Western Australian Pearcey Entrepreneur of the Year in recognition of his work in the IT and security managed services sector.


In The News: Norwood Systems recognised at WA's INCITE Awards

The 34th INCITE Awards, presented by WAITTA, has named telecommunications software company Norwood Systems the Dr Mal Bryce Tech Company of the Year.


Women in Technology WA, Norwood Systems shine at 2025 INCITE Awards

The 34th INCITE Awards celebrated Western Australia's top technology innovators on Friday, 18 July 2025, honouring gender equity leaders from Women in Technology WA (WiTWA) and naming Norwood Systems as Tech Company of the Year.


Meet our 2025 Game Changer Awards Chief Judge

As the Game Changer Awards steps into its milestone 10th program, we are thrilled to announce Gena Rattan as our Chief Judge for 2025.


INCITE explainer: Why we're amplifying Sustainability and Environmental Impact

To recognise the increasing shift in technology towards adopting sustainable approaches, the INCITE Awards has introduced a new category. Learn more about the Sustainability and Environmental Impact Award.


Why the Game Changer Academy matters – and why sponsors should get involved

The Game Changer Awards is celebrating a decade of fostering Western Australian students' love for STEM. We're taking our investment in future talent to the next level by launching the Game Changer Academy with Bloom - will you join us as a sponsor?


Celebrating a year of impact: WAITTA 2024 Annual Report now available

We’re proud to share the WAITTA FY24 Annual Report - a look back at a year dedicated to celebrating, connecting and championing WA’s thriving technology profession and community.


2025 putt4dough registrations now open

Get ready to swing into action: Registrations for 2025 putt4dough are officially open! Now in its 15th year, putt4dough continues to unite Western Australia’s technology community for a day of connection, competition and community impact.


National Volunteer Week: Celebrating the heart of community with WAITTA and Mentor it Forward

We celebrated our volunteers during National Volunteer Week with storytelling from past INCITE Awards alum about the power of mentoring provided via WAITTA partner Mentor it Forward.


Announcing the finalists of the 34th INCITE Awards

Announcing the finalists of the 34th INCITE Awards, celebrating Western Australia's top technology and innovation achievements in 2025.


Video: Engineering game-changing futures with e2 Young Engineers

As a Bronze Sponsor of the Game Changer Awards, e2 Young Engineers Australia is inspiring the next generation of innovators to think creatively, problem-solve with purpose, and use STEM to tackle global challenges.


Video: Nurturing STEM curiosity with Strategic Transformation Advisory

Thanks to Strategic Transformation Advisory, a Game Changer Awards Bronze Sponsor, we're seeing the next generation of Western Australian leaders use STEM to solve world challenges.


Honorary award nominations close 26 May

As we shine a spotlight on Western Australia’s visionaries in the technology sector, we invite you to join the celebration by nominating yourself or someone you know in our honorary awards.


Video: Engaging students with STEM and Catalytic IT

Thanks to Catalytic IT, a Game Changer Awards Bronze Sponsor, we're nurturing the next generation of STEM leaders in Western Australia. Watch to discover how we're engaging students in STEM with Catalytic IT.


Celebrating the Class of '24: Revisiting the 33rd INCITE Awards

We're revisiting the 33rd INCITE Awards: Check out our dedicated website to the winners and merit recipients of the 33rd INCITE Awards.


Celebrating 10 years of Game Changers: Nurturing the next generation with Bloom

Celebrating 10 years of empowering Western Australian youth in STEM: Learn about our new partnership with Bloom, expanded school reach, and initiatives fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.


2024 Game Changer Awards Impact Report

Discover the impact of the 2024 Game Changer Awards in our latest Impact Report.


Demystifying INCITE: Nominating is easy and free

The 34th INCITE Awards are fast approaching, and we want to ensure that your innovative projects get the recognition they deserve. Here’s a comprehensive guide - in both written and video forms - to help you navigate the nomination process and submit a standout entry.


Video: Containers for Change WA supporting STEM education via the Game Changer Awards

Thanks to Containers for Change (WARRRL), a Game Changer Awards Platinum Sponsor, we're elevating the next generation of STEM leaders in Western Australia. Watch to find out how our partnership with Kristen and his team provides students with the opportunity to learn how to help our planet sustainably through STEM.


Deadline extended: 34th INCITE Awards project categories close 15 April

Thinking of nominating in the 34th INCITE Awards? This is a sign to go for it: The deadline to submit project nominations for Western Australia's longest-running technology awards and only pathway to the Australian iAwards has been extended to 15 April 2025, 11:59 PM AWST.


Video: Why Student Edge backs the Game Changer Awards

Thanks to Student Edge, a Game Changer Awards Gold Partner, we're elevating the next generation of STEM leaders in WA. One lucky team presented their project at the West Tech Fest Young Entrepreneurs Showcase, gaining exposure and connecting with industry leaders. We're grateful to Student Edge for empowering young innovators.


Meet the Ambassadors for the 2025 INCITE Awards

Meet the Western Australian technology leaders championing innovation as Ambassadors for the 2025 INCITE Awards.


Inside INCITE: Containers for Change on the journey to the iAwards

Discover how Containers for Change leveraged the INCITE Awards as a launchpad for international success, from local recognition to global acclaim at the iAwards and APICTA.


Event: INCITE Awards Virtual Briefing for Nominees

Join us for a briefing for those nominating in the INCITE Awards, Western Australia's pathway to the Australian iAwards. RSVP is essential.


Early Bird tickets for 34th INCITE Awards on sale

Join us for the 2025 INCITE Awards on Friday, 18 July, celebrating Western Australian excellence in innovation, technology and talent.


Celebrating our 2024 Game Changer Award winners

As we look ahead to our 10th Game Changer Awards, we're celebrating our 2024 award-winners who were announced in November.


Nominations for the 34th INCITE Awards now open

Nominations are now open for the 34th INCITE Awards, celebrating technology and innovation excellence. Submit your groundbreaking ideas and join a community of innovators working towards enhancing our way of life.


Vale Bruce Wilson OAM: WAITTA Pays Tribute to Long-Standing WA Technology Community Member

It is with great sadness that WAITTA acknowledges the passing of Bruce Wilson, a long-term stalwart of the information technology industry.


Looking back on 2024 - thank you WA tech community!

WA had a record-breaking year for celebrating technology, innovation and talent. Here are the highlights.


Western Australia Represents on the Global Stage at the 2024 APICTA Awards

WAITTA extends its congratulations to all participants in the 2024 APICTA Awards, especially WA's Containers for Change (WARRRL).


Jan Kornweibel: Pearcey Hall of Fame Inductee

The Western Australian Information Technology and Telecommunications Alliance (WAITTA) extends its heartfelt congratulations to Jan Kornweibel on her induction into the prestigious Pearcey Hall of Fame.


2024 putt4dough raises $82,000 for Perth Children’s Hospital Foundation

WAITTA's 2024 putt4dough charity golf event was a resounding success, bringing together WA’s tech community to raise an incredible $82,000 for the Perth Children’s Hospital Foundation.


Easy Judge app: National Institute of Technology unveils custom judging app for Game Changer Awards

Technology talent volunteering as judges at the 2024 Game Changer Awards will have a custom-built app from the National Institute of Technology to use.


💡 Episode 4 - Dr Parwinder Kaur | Insightful Conversations

Meet Dr Parwinder Kaur, renowned molecular geneticist and biotechnologist, Director of DNA Zoo Australia, and 2024 Achiever of the Year.


💡 Episode 3 - Switched on Seniors | Insightful Conversations

Meet Sheena Edwards, founder of Switched On Seniors and winner of the 2024 Digital Inclusion Award.


2025 INCITE Awards Co-Chairs announced

WAITTA has announced Cameron Zivkovic and Jess Etheridge as the Co-Chairs of WA's technology and innovation pathway program, The INCITE Awards, for 2025.


💡 Episode 2 - EarFlo | Insightful Conversations

Meet Dr Intan Oldakowska, Co-Founder and CEO of EarFlo, and the 2024 WA Startup of the Year.


💡 Episode #1 - VetChip | Insightful Conversations

We sit down with Zyrus Khambatta, CTO of VetChip, to explore how their cutting-edge technology is transforming animal healthcare.


WA innovations take top awards at national iAwards

We are thrilled to announce that Western Australia's innovation leaders will take the global stage this December in Brunei at the prestigious Asia Pacific ICT Alliance (APICTA) Awards!


Photos: 33rd INCITE Awards at The Westin Perth

Relive the magic of the 33rd INCITE Awards with our photo gallery.


Announcing the winners of the 33rd INCITE Awards

The Western Australian IT and Telecommunications Alliance is delighted to announce the results of the 33rd INCITE Awards, held Friday 19 July 2024 at The Westin Perth.

Sign
up to our mailing list
First Name
Email Address
Subscribe

secretary@waitta.com.au

PO Box 5647 St Georges Terrace WA 6831

Logo