On 17 September 2025, Perth became the heart of a vital conversation as Alzheimer’s WA hosted the Dementia Symposium 2025, bringing together 400 passionate leaders from across the aged care and healthcare sectors, alongside carers, families, and support workers.
This inspiring event was more than just a gathering; it was a collective commitment to building a dementia-friendly state and contribute to the Cook Government’s State Dementia Action Plan. The Minister for Health and Mental Health, the Hon. Meredith Hammat MLA, officially opened the event and spoke about access, equity, and the importance of care in the community.
Prof. Warren Harding, AM Chairman and Head of Research and Partnerships, Alzheimer’s WA, provided key updates on research, early digital dementia detection, and Ella Dachs, CEO of Alzheimer’s WA, provided an update on AWA’s care services and outcomes.
Through shared stories, expert insights, and collaborative discussions, the symposium highlighted the importance of community, compassion, and innovation in dementia care, the need for linguistically and culturally appropriate information, and the importance of providing appropriate support for First Nation communities.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended and contributed to the success of the day. Your voices, experiences, and dedication are shaping a future where people living with dementia are supported, understood, and empowered.
Many thanks to our incredible speakers: Andrew Allsop, Avril Fahey, Dr Sadhana Bose, Carol Pettersen OAM JP, Emily Rousso, James Jarvis, Kedy Kristal, Kimmi Shah, Dr Nick Spendier, Tiffanie Ruston, and Prof. Lily Xiao.
Together, we are making Western Australia a place where people living with dementia can live with dignity and quality care.
Photo 1: L- R Ella Dachs – CEO Alzheimer’s WA, Hon. Meredith Hammat BA MIR MLA, Prof. Warren Harding AM, Chair and Head of Research and Partnerships Alzheimer’s WA
Much gratitude to our sponsors:
– HESTA
– Numero Australia
– Souvenaid
Together, we are making Western Australia a place where people living with dementia can live with dignity and quality care.
#AlzheimersWA
#DementiaAwarenessMonth
#DementiaSymposium2025
