Western Australia has always been a place of ingenuity. From the first people to set foot on the continent of Australia to the present day, innovation has long been part of our story. It is a story that spans deserts and forests, the red earth of the Pilbara to the coast. Innovation is embedded in laboratories, classrooms, startups and industries across our cities and regions.
In 2025, that spirit was once again on full display through the work of WAITTA and the broader technology community.
This year has marked an important moment in the evolution of WAITTA. After more than three decades championing our state's technology sector, our organisation stepped forward with a renewed identity as the Western Australian Innovation, Technology & Talent Alliance. The new name reflects both heritage and ambition - honouring the strong foundations built since the WA IT & Telecommunications Awards were founded by the inimitable Jim Ellis OAM in 1991, while signalling a clear commitment to strengthening connections between innovation, industry technology capability, and the talented people who will shape Western Australia's digital economy.
Throughout 2025, the Alliance continued to celebrate excellence and inspire the next generations.
The 34th INCITE Awards once again showcased the world-class technology innovation being developed right here in our State - from cutting-edge research and startups to impactful industry solutions and community-driven technology projects.
It was fantastic to see three Western Australian teams gain entry to the international Asia-Pacific ICT Alliance Awards, including our own AI leader Norwood Systems winning Gold in the Industrial and Infrastructure Solutions Award.
These achievements demonstrate that Western Australia is not only a resource powerhouse, but a growing centre for digital ingenuity and problem-solving.
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Equally important has been WAITTA's commitment to building pathways into technology careers for the next generation.
The Game Changer Awards now support more than 8,000 students across the State. This program is helping young Western Australians discover and pursue STEM careers - ensuring our region has the skills and ideas needed for the decades ahead.
Another highlight of the year was the continued generosity and collaboration of the technology community through fundraising initiative putt4dough, which once again raised $80,000 in support of Perth Children's Hospital Foundation. This spirit of community reminds us that technology leadership is not only about innovation, but also about impact.
As Patron, I am continually grateful for and inspired by the dedication of the volunteers, partners, sponsors and supporters who make WAITTA's work possible. The commitment from government, business, academia and the community reflects a shared belief that Western Australia can and will be a global hub of invention, investment and opportunity that changes the world for the better.
Prof. Lyn Beazley AO
Patron, WAITTA
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