From battlefield to the frontline: How veteran Jeremy Holder revolutionised trauma care in Australia

Finalist – Commonwealth Bank Business of the Year Award

When former Australian Army Special Operations medic Jeremy Holder transitioned from the Army he left with unique learnings and experiences that he could incorporate into civilian life.

As an Intensive Care e Paramedic with NSW Ambulance, Jeremy was shocked to find that the life-saving tools he relied on in combat -—like tourniquets and trauma dressings – —weren’t available to Australia’s first responders.

He saw a gap. And he decided to fill it.

From his spare bedroom, Jeremy founded TacMed Australia, a veteran-led company that delivers advanced emergency medical equipment, trauma kits, and tactical medical training to Australia’s emergency services, defence, high-risk industries, and remote communities.

Their motto: “Depend on us when lives depend on you” : says it all.

TacMed’s trauma kits – —such as the Vehicle Trauma Kit, Bleeding Control Kit, and Snake Bite Kit— – are designed by medics. And their training, which ranges from basic first aid to tactical trauma care, incorporates real-world military medical techniques.

Today, TacMed Australia stands as a model of innovation, resilience, and purpose. It’s not only revolutionising trauma response – it’s giving veterans and first responders meaningful careers in a culture they understand.

From spare bedroom beginnings to national reach, TacMed continues to serve those who serve others.

Find out more: https://tacmedaustralia.com.au

 Matthew Moseley and Peter Liston: Empowering Both Veterans and Global Talent

Finalist – Commonwealth Bank Business of the Year Award

Matthew Moseley and Peter Liston, veterans of the Australian Army with service in Afghanistan and East Timor, successfully transitioned from military life to entrepreneurship. Their journey began when he enrolled in a business program run by the Trust, which laid the foundation for his remarkable ventures in the business world.

As a finalist in the Trust’s 2025 Commonwealth Bank Business of the Year Award, co-founders Matthew and Peter are recognised for their companies Offshore Talent (OT), TTP Digital and Veteran Business Community

– Offshore Talent connects skilled professionals from developing countries, primarily the Philippines, with employment opportunities in countries such as Australia, the US, the UK, and the UAE. The roles range from general administrative positions to specialist roles, and the company has grown to a team of nearly 300 people.

– TTP – Digital delivers AI powered, data-driven digital marketing strategies

– Through the Veteran Business Community, Matthew and Peter aim to empower and support veterans reach their potential through enterprise and entrepreneurship.

Through their work, Matthew and Peter continue to serve by creating meaningful employment and building stronger communities across the globe.

Drawing on leadership, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills honed in the Australian Army, Matt now applies the same discipline and innovation to entrepreneurship – empowering small businesses to work smarter and building stronger communities across the globe and supporting veterans to their potential through enterprise and entrepreneurship.

Rescue dogs. Saving lives. 💙

Finalist – Commonwealth Bank Business of the Year Award

It was a personal struggle with PTSD that inspired Roger Weeks to co-found PTSD Dogs Australia with his partner Angie.
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When Roger was medically discharged from the Royal Australian Air Force, an assistance dog was suggested as a possible lifeline. But it quickly became clear that the demand far outweighed supply, and the cost was beyond the reach of many.

With the support of close friends, Roger and Angie made the decision to establish a charity that could become a beacon of hope for others walking the same difficult path.

“We made a vow: if we could prevent even one tragedy, our efforts would be worth it,” said Roger.

PTSD Dogs Australia rescues shelter dogs and transforms them into highly trained Assistance Dogs. These dogs detect distress, provide comfort, and help mitigate symptoms of PTSD. Each pairing is life-changing, offering companionship, emotional support, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Once trained, each dog is matched with current and former military and emergency service personnel who have been clinically diagnosed with PTSD as a result of their service.

“The most important thing to me is providing hope to those who are also battling PTSD,” says Roger.

In six years, they’ve seen lives saved, families healed, and futures reclaimed. They’ve expanded their board and team of trainers and are now working towards a purpose-built training centre to help scale their impact. The results have been profound – all thanks to the unconditional love and unwavering support of specially trained dogs.

“The journey has been challenging,” Roger admits, “but every life touched, every smile restored, makes it all worthwhile.”

Find out more: https://www.ptsddogs.org.au

Creating values-aligned careers

Finalist, Ministry of the Future Young Achiever Award‍

Small Business Founder Lana McMurdo is a Finalist for the Ministry of the Future Young Achiever Award at the King’s Trust Australia Awards 2025.

With a background in Human Resources and Recruitment, Lana helps people create values-aligned careers through her business Resumes by Lana.

After migrating to Australia in 2000 at the age of seven, Lana grew up driven by a deep desire for belonging, purpose, and impact – values shaped by her family’s lived experiences in conflict zones and their pursuit of a better life.

Following the traditional path of education and climbing the corporate ladder, she excelled in her chosen career of HR. Yet something was missing and Lana found herself increasingly unfulfilled.

Her turning point came after relocating to Canberra with her ADF husband. She found herself in a new city with no networks or friends. Instead of viewing the challenge as a setback, Lana saw it as an opportunity. Encouraged by her husband, she decided to start her own business.

Drawing on her lived experience as a migrant, a defence spouse, and a woman navigating complex transitions, Lana now helps others do the same – including young people, veterans, and defence families – who are often navigating unique and complex career pathways. Her business is a way for her to give back, create meaningful impact, and finally find the sense of purpose and belonging.

This Award category is supported by Ministry of the Future.

Ministry of the Future is on a mission to amplify the voices of young Australians who are shaping the future through courage, creativity, and community leadership. As a youth-led climate storytelling initiative, they work with emerging changemakers to reframe narratives around agency, systems change, and belonging. The Young Achiever Award offers a powerful platform to celebrate young people rewriting what’s possible – not just in climate, but across education, enterprise, and social impact.

Emerging leader in the maritime industry

Finalist, Ministry of the Future Young Achiever Award

A Worimi man and Finalist for the Ministry of the Future Young Achiever Award at the King’s Trust Australia Awards 2025, Malachi Mateo’s journey exemplifies determination, adaptability, and leadership.

Looking for a career change, Malachi enrolled in The King’s Trust Australia’s Get Into Maritime programme. The programme’s focus on identity, skill development and cultural integration – as well as hands-on training and qualifications – allowed him to flourish and to step confidently into the maritime industry.

Today, Malachi works with Serco Defence Maritime Services, supporting the Royal Australian Navy at Fleet Base East, Sydney Harbour. As a deckhand on fuel barges, he plays a critical role in daily operations; demonstrating dedication, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence.

Eager to grow, Malachi has since completed numerous marine qualifications and reflecting his desire to build a long-term career in the maritime industry. Malachi’s personal and professional growth stands as a testament to the power of targeted support, cultural respect, and community-driven opportunity.

Today, he stands as a skilled maritime professional, a resilient learner, and a proud First Nations role model.

Malachi’s journey is one of hope and inspiration –for his family and wider community.

This Award category is supported by Ministry of the Future.

Ministry of the Future is on a mission to amplify the voices of young Australians who are shaping the future through courage, creativity, and community leadership. As a youth-led climate storytelling initiative, they work with emerging changemakers to reframe narratives around agency, systems change, and belonging. The Young Achiever Award offers a powerful platform to celebrate young people rewriting what’s possible – not just in climate, but across education, enterprise, and social impact.

Exploring Careers on Sea Country

Finalist, Ministry of the Future Young Achiever Award

Tobias Prior is a a Yirranydji man and single father from Yarrabah, located on the traditional lands of the Gunggandji and Yidinji peoples. He is a Finalist for the Ministry of the Future Young Achiever Award at the King’s Trust Australia Awards 2025.

An hour from Cairns, Yarrabah’s unreliable phone, internet, and transportation makes it challenging for young people to secure stable employment and build meaningful careers.

Last December, Tobias joined The King’s Trust Australia’s Get Into Reef Conservation programme to build his skills and expand his career options.

Over the seven-week course, he gained valuable training in reef conservation, Traditional Owner Science, and personal development.

At first, Tobias was quiet and reserved, uncertain about what to expect. However, his reliability, eagerness to learn, and quiet determination stood out. His commitment inspired his fellow trainees and earned him the respect of staff, mentors, and Elders alike.

As one Yirrganydji Elder shared, “I have known Tobias all his life, and to watch how he has grown in confidence and his commitment to looking after the reef is wonderful.”

“Tobias excelled in both technical and personal skills development. He embraced reef monitoring techniques, coral restoration methods, and the programme’s deep, hands-on connection to land and sea.”

Tobias’ confidence grew during the programme, with one mentor reflecting, “What impressed me most was how Tobias could lead a conversation with guests about the importance of connecting to Country and understanding reef ecosystems – something he could barely speak about when he first joined us.

“Tobias’ journey is as a powerful example of how targeted programmes, grounded in culture and delivered on Country, can empower First Nations young people to lead, protect, and inspire.”

This Award category is supported by Ministry of the Future.

‍Ministry of the Future is on a mission to amplify the voices of young Australians who are shaping the future through courage, creativity, and community leadership. As a youth-led climate storytelling initiative, they work with emerging changemakers to reframe narratives around agency, systems change,and belonging. The Young Achiever Award offers a powerful platform to celebrate young people rewriting what’s possible – not just in climate, but across education, enterprise, and social impact.

Turning air into drinking water

Finalist, Saab Australia Rising Star Award and Veolia Sustainability Award 2025

Shannon Lemanski is on a mission to provide clean drinking water for anyone, anywhere. His ambition is clear: to generate 300 million litres of water per day by 2032 so that every Australian – regardless of postcode – can turn on the tap and trust what comes out.

As Co-Founder and Managing Director of social enterprise Aqua Ubique, Shannon creates water from air using cutting edge technology called Atmospheric Water Generation. Similar to an air conditioner, this remarkable technology condenses humidity from the air, purifies and mineralizes it, then dispenses safe, clean drinking water.

An Army veteran, mechanical engineer, and social entrepreneur, Shannon was on deployment to Papua New Guinea when locals approached his unit and asked the troops if they could have the plastic water bottles they had collected to store rainwater, reducing their reliance on contaminated water from a nearby creek.

This set in motion a chain of events that led to Aqua Ubique. Launched in 2024, Aqua Ubique offers an alternative to conventional office coolers, with every five machines funding one for a remote community through its Drop4Drop program.

Awarded the inaugural King’s Trust (formerly Prince’s Trust) Enterprise Accelerate Award and named 2025 Sunshine Coast Biosphere Business of the Year, Shannon’s work is widely recognised across the clean tech and social enterprise sectors for its impact, innovation, and integrity.

Aqua Ubique’s growing list of clients includes Sunshine Coast Council, Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council, and Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre – all of whom are setting a public example for sustainability, circularity, and community reinvestment.

Shannon attributes The King’s Trust Australia Enterpise programme to the business’ early success – helping them develop a customer-led strategy, connections to legal advisors, and introducing Aqua Ubique’s “first big break” client on Lady Elliot Island.

“The programme didn’t just sharpen our thinking – it backed us to take action. “

“More than anything, the programme reminded us we weren’t alone. It gave us capability, credibility, and connections at a stage where those three things were hard to come by – and it continues to shape how we grow.”

Reshaping the future of support

Finalist, Saab Australia Rising Star Award

‍Meet Shannon Hennessy – founder of VESPIIA, the first national body supporting those who support others and finalist in the Saab Australia Rising Star Award.

After years working across the defence, ex-service, and government sectors, Shannon saw a major gap: there was no system looking after the people behind veteran and emergency services.

So in 2023, she did something about it.

“Good people are doing essential work—but with very little structural support. I created VESPIIA to give them a professional home, a shared voice, and the tools to keep going,” said Shannon.

VESPIIA is Australia’s first national professional body for the people and organisations behind our service communities.

“What makes VESPIIA different is that we are building infrastructure—not programmes. We don’t deliver direct services to veterans or first responders. Instead, we serve the people behind the services: staff, volunteers, project officers, peer workers, chaplains, and community leaders. It’s a deliberately broad and inclusive model, because effective support depends on the whole ecosystem working well.”

“We also focus on organisations that are often overlooked—smaller, community-based, and volunteer-led groups who are delivering essential services but don’t have access to training, tools, or coordinated support.

VESPIIA now serves as a national platform for training, advocacy, networking, and shared resources across a broad and inclusive membership base—spanning NGOs, peer workers, chaplains, volunteers, researchers, and community leaders.

Shannon also serves as the editor of the Future Frontlines policy papers and is a leading advocate for workforce development, policy reform, and professionalisation in the veterans and first response sector. Her leadership is grounded in strategic thinking, deep sector knowledge, and lived experience—she is married to an active member of the Australian Defence Force.

👏 Learn more about how Shannon and VESPIIA are reshaping the future of support: www.vespiia.org.au

From combat to construction
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Finalist, Saab Australia Rising Star Award 2025

In the high-voltage corridors of Australia’s infrastructure sector, one name is quietly redefining what leadership looks like: Ben Campbell, Finalist for the Saab Australia Rising Star Award at the King’s Trust Australia Awards 2025.

A Veteran of the Australian Army’s 2nd Battalion, Ben served two combat tours before transitioning into civilian life in 2013. What followed was a decade-long climb through the electrical industry, from Trades Assistant to High-Voltage Substation Technician.

But in 2023, with a newborn at home and no external funding, Ben made a bold move: he launched Milspec Energy Solutions, a veteran-owned high-voltage electrical company based in Queensland.

In less than a year, Milspec grew to 12 full-time staff, secured major contracts, and established a fleet and depot. But Ben’s proudest milestone? Employing a fellow young veteran as Milspec’s first electrical apprentice – a moment that reflects his deeper mission: creating meaningful post-service careers for others.

Built on military values of integrity, discipline, and service, Milspec delivers complex infrastructure projects across QLD, NSW, and VIC. The company’s in-house delivery model, veteran-first recruitment strategy, and commitment to social impact set it apart in an industry often driven by volume and margin.

Ben’s leadership is hands-on, values-led, and deeply personal. He’s navigated sacrifice, isolation, and the mental shifts of transitioning from defence to business, all while building a culture of excellence and accountability. His ability to secure Tier 1 contracts within weeks of launching speaks to the trust he’s earned through years of reliable delivery and deep field knowledge.

Milspec isn’t just a business – it’s a platform for impact. From mentoring apprentices to supporting local suppliers, Ben is proving that commercial success and social purpose can go hand in hand.

Find out more: https://www.milspecenergy.com.au

The King’s Trust Australia Awards 2025 Saab Australia Rising Star Award recognises the outstanding efforts of a veteran or Australian Defence Force (ADF) family business owner/operator 35 years old and under.

Cultivating beauty with integrity

Finalist, Veolia Sustainability Award 2025

With a background in agriculture and a deep commitment to sustainability, Dominic Smith founded Diramu Skincare in the Riverland region of South Australia.

With a hands-on, small-scale approach, Diramu produces clean, ethical skincare using native Australian botanicals grown and processed entirely on-farm.

Driven by a commitment to low-waste manufacturing, compostable and recyclable packaging, and regenerative farming practices, Diramu offers a local alternative to mainstream skincare. His mission is to not only nourish skin naturally, but to foster regional economic growth and environmental stewardship.

By cultivating its own ingredients, Diramu minimizes the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transport and industrial farming. The team is currently exploring formal sustainability certifications to further reinforce its values and impact.

Dominic said his participation in a King’s Trust Australia enterprise program played a key role in shaping the direction and growth of Diramu Skincare.

“The program provided practical tools, business planning frameworks, and one-on-one mentoring that helped bring structure to the early ideas,” says Dominic.

“It gave me the space to refine the brand, articulate the purpose behind the business, and map out a sustainable path forward.

“Through the program, I gained valuable business knowledge and was introduced to a network of like-minded entrepreneurs and professionals who continue to inspire and support me.

“The King’s Trust helped me recognise the importance of leading with purpose and gave me the confidence to bring that purpose into every area of Diramu — from sourcing and production to community connection and storytelling. That change in mindset continues to shape how the business operates and grows today.”

Find out more – https://www.diramuskincare.com.au

Turning air into drinking water

Finalist, Saab Australia Rising Star Award and Veolia Sustainability Award 2025

Shannon Lemanski is on a mission to provide clean drinking water for anyone, anywhere. His ambition is clear: to generate 300 million litres of water per day by 2032 so that every Australian – regardless of postcode – can turn on the tap and trust what comes out.

As Co-Founder and Managing Director of social enterprise Aqua Ubique, Shannon creates water from air using cutting edge technology called Atmospheric Water Generation. Similar to an air conditioner, this remarkable technology condenses humidity from the air, purifies and mineralizes it, then dispenses safe, clean drinking water.

An Army veteran, mechanical engineer, and social entrepreneur, Shannon was on deployment to Papua New Guinea when locals approached his unit and asked the troops if they could have the plastic water bottles they had collected to store rainwater, reducing their reliance on contaminated water from a nearby creek.

This set in motion a chain of events that led to Aqua Ubique. Launched in 2024, Aqua Ubique offers an alternative to conventional office coolers, with every five machines funding one for a remote community through its Drop4Drop program.

Awarded the inaugural King’s Trust (formerly Prince’s Trust) Enterprise Accelerate Award and named 2025 Sunshine Coast Biosphere Business of the Year, Shannon’s work is widely recognised across the clean tech and social enterprise sectors for its impact, innovation, and integrity.

Aqua Ubique’s growing list of clients includes Sunshine Coast Council, Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council, and Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre – all of whom are setting a public example for sustainability, circularity, and community reinvestment.

Shannon attributes The King’s Trust Australia Enterpise programme to the business’ early success – helping them develop a customer-led strategy, connections to legal advisors, and introducing Aqua Ubique’s “first big break” client on Lady Elliot Island.

“The programme didn’t just sharpen our thinking – it backed us to take action. “

“More than anything, the programme reminded us we weren’t alone. It gave us capability, credibility, and connections at a stage where those three things were hard to come by – and it continues to shape how we grow.”

Guardians of the Great Barrier Reef

Finalist – Veolia Sustainabilty Award

Adele Pile loves the sea. A marine scientist, she has spent most of her working life exploring the uncharted depths of the world’s oceans. In 2019, Adele and her husband Stuart, established Great Barrier Reef Safaris in the tropical paradise of Mission Beach, Far North Queensland.

Their company offers unforgettable, marine biologist-led private tours of the Great BarrierReef, along with bespoke boating and island camping adventures. Their day tripshave earned a place on the “10 Best” list by Tourism & Events Queensland.

Adele and Stuart’s business is driven by a passion for the natural environment.

“Our ecotourism business is founded on education and stewardship. It is the framework that we use to teach others about The Reef and what we all need to do to save it,” said Adele.

“We are the only operator between Townsville and Cairns certified by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority to conduct reef health surveys. That’s a whopping 5% of The Reef. And about 25% of our business is dedicated to supporting scientific research by some of Australia’s world class institutions.”

But their impact goes beyond science. At the heart of their work is a deep, respectful collaboration with Traditional Owners – particularly the Girringun and Mandubarra peoples. To date, they’ve facilitated over 100 sea country visits for Traditional Owners; helped to train six Indigenous Rangers in snorkeling and reef monitoring skills; and developed two groundbreaking educational programmes to empower the next generation to care for their sea country.

Looking to the future, Adele and Stuart are now co-developing seagrass, oyster, and coral reef restoration projects with Girringun and Mandubarra Traditional Owners. These efforts will help rebuild critical habitats lost to climate change, while laying the foundation for First Nations-led regenerative tourism.

“We believe tourism needs a cultural reset,” says Adele. “Operators must take ownership of their patch and be active stewards of the environment.”

Find out more: https://www.greatbarrierreefsafaris.com

Reimagining education through connection and innovation

Finalist for The Paul Cross Educator of the Year Award 2025

‍In classrooms across Australia – from remote Northern Territory communities to bustling Sydney schools – Brett Salakas has quietly led a revolution. As a Finalist for The Paul Cross Educator of the Year Award the King’s Trust Australia Awards 2025, Brett’s impact is felt not just in lesson plans, but in lives transformed.

With over 26 years of teaching and leadership experience across Southeast Asia and Australia, Brett has redefined what it means to be an educator in the digital age. His philosophy is simple yet profound: “No amount of AI or technology can replace the connection a teacher builds with a student.” That belief drives every initiative he leads.

At Berry Springs Public School in the Northern Territory, Brett helped turn low attendance and digital disengagement into global recognition. His culturally sensitive tech interventions sparked a surge in student engagement, earning the school the title of “Most Growth and Improvement” on the worldstage.

But Brett’s influence extends far beyond the classroom. As founding coach of Wests Girls Rugby and MLC Burwood’s first rugby mentor, he shattered barriers in girls’ sport – opening doors that led one student to present Australia in women’s rugby.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Brett’s leadership became a lifeline. He spearheaded the NSW Department of Education’s Learning from Home Hub, ensuring millions of students – especially the most vulnerable – could continue learning in dynamic, inclusive digital environments.

Brett’s reach is systemic. As HP Education Ambassador, he developed the Reinvent the Classroom methodology, now adopted across Australia and New Zealand. His work helped Baulkham Hills North Public School become a finalist in the 2023 Global EdTech Awards for “Best Digital Transformation.”

He’s also a community builder. Brett founded #aussieED, Australia’s largest online teaching network, and launched Mammoth Learning, a publishing house helping 50 Australian educators become authors. His own bestselling book, A Mammoth Lesson, has amplified Australian educational voices globally.

Through his podcast, professional development sessions, and tireless advocacy, Brett continues to empower educators, parents, and students alike. His work is a blueprint for how technology can deepen, not dilute, human connection in learning.

Congratulations, Brett, on this well-earned recognition!

Educator, chef and change maker
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Finalist for The Paul Cross Educator of the Year Award 2025

CatherineMcDougall is not your average teacher. She’s a passionate educator, chef, and changemaker whose work in food education is transforming lives across Western Australia – especially for students from underserved backgrounds.

At the heart of Catherine’s approach is the belief that learning should be meaningful, hands-on, and inclusive. Through programmes like Jackson’s Training Café and Bean@bility Café, she has created real-world experiences where students can gain nationally recognised hospitality qualifications while building confidence, community, and a sense of purpose.

But Catherine’s impact goes far beyond the school gates.

She co-founded the not-for-profit Prepare Produce Provide (PPP) and launched the 5,000Meals Program, which engages students in preparing nutritious meals for vulnerable people using rescued food. PPP has provided tens of thousands of meals to those in need, teaching students not only kitchen skills but also empathy, leadership, and social responsibility.

And the results speak for themselves – improved school attendance, greater engagement, and clear post-school pathways into further education and employment.

Her commitment to equity doesn’t stop at metro schools. Catherine has worked with remote communities in WA and collaborated with schools, Elders,and industry to deliver food education that’s relevant, respectful, and empowering.

One of her proudest milestones came in 2020, when Indigenous students from her programme travelled to Germany to compete in the Culinary Olympics – becoming the first Aboriginal Australians to represent their culture on that global culinary stage.

Whether she’s working alongside students in a school café,collaborating with chefs and Elders, or mentoring educators across the state,Catherine MacDougall is redefining what education can be. Her work is a powerful reminder of the importance of heart, community, and purpose.

Building futures through sport

Finalist for The Paul Cross Educator of the Year Award 2025

In Glenroy, Melbourne, a green jersey worn by “The Green Team” tells a story far deeper than sport. It’s the story of Itiki Sporting Club, and the woman who built it from nothing but belief – Mariella Teuira, Finalist for The Paul Cross Educator of the Year Award at the King’s Trust Australia Awards 2025.

Mariella’s journey began with adversity – homelessness, teen parenthood, and the fight to save her school, Ballerrt Mooroop College – but she transformed her lived experience into a mission to uplift others. When the school faced closure, Mariella lived onsite with her children and Indigenous Elders to keep its gates open. That same fierce commitment now fuels her work at Itiki.

Founded in 2012, Itiki Sporting Club is more than a sports programme – it’s a trauma-informed, wrap around mentoring initiative that supports over 300 young people annually. Many come from Indigenous, Pacific Islander, and multicultural backgrounds. Some have disengaged from school, faced family trauma, or had experience with the justice system. All find a safe haven at Itiki.

Mariella’s model is holistic: sport is the gateway, but the real learning happens in car rides, community BBQs, and moments of trust. She teaches budgeting through fundraising, leadership through coaching, and resilience through example. Her leadership is circular, not hierarchical.

Her philosophy: “You become the strongest person you know through your hardship.”

Every programme is free. Every participant s expected to give back. And every success story – from a shy girl who found her voice to a young man now entering special services in the ADF – is a testament to Mariella’s impact.

Now, she’s preparing to pass the baton to 17-year-old Destiny Teuira Mifsud, who says, “She’s like a mother to all of us. She’s changed a lot of our lives for the better and she’s the reason I am who I am today. She has made a better version of myself. She made a family in Itiki.”

Mariella’s work is a living blueprint ofwhat education can be when grounded in culture, community, and unconditional belief. Congratulations, Mariella, on this well-deserved recognition.

More than just a place to stay.

Finalist – Employer of the Year Award 2025

Hotel Etico is more than just a place to stay – it’s Australia’s first not for profit social enterprise hotel. Nestled in the historic Mount Victoria Manor in the Blue Mountains, this pioneering social enterprise is a Finalist in The King’s Trust Australia 2025 Employer of the Year Awards.

Co-founder and CEO Andre Comastri believes that employment is not just about a paycheck, it’s about dignity, independence, and purpose. It’s also about challenging the wider community to see both the human and economic value of an inclusive society.

Committed to transforming perceptions of disability in the workplace, the hotel offers a high-quality hospitality experience while providing employment, training, and independent living opportunities for young adults living with disabilities.

Through its innovative 12-month Academy of Independence program, trainees live on-site, receive award wages, and gain hands-on experience across all areas of hotel operations, hospitality, customer service, housekeeping, and food and beverage. They also learn life skills such as budgeting, communication, and independent living.

The programme boasts a strong success rate – since opening in November 2020, Hotel Etico has employed and trained 50 young people and 86% of its graduates have secured employment.

By providing real jobs, training, and opportunities, Andrea aims to break the cycle of exclusion and build a more inclusive hospitality industry. Hotel Etico has over 30 industry employment partners including The Fullerton, Shangri-La, Hilton, Sheraton, Fairmont, Mercure, The W and many others.

Andrea’s vision is to see a Hotel Etico in every State and Territory in Australia, transforming community attitudes towards people with disability, and making Australia’s tourism and hospitality sector the most inclusive in the world.

Championing meaningful employment and skills training

Finalist – Employer of the Year Award 2025

For over 45 years, WorkVentures has quietly driven social change as one of Australia’s longest-running not-for-profit social enterprises. At the heart of their work lies a simple yet transformative belief – that meaningful employment and skills training are key to breaking cycles of disadvantage.

A Finalist in The King’s Trust Australia 2025 Employer of the Year Awards, WorkVentures has supported thousands of people into training, education, and long-term employment – particularly those facing social or economic barriers – since 1979.

And the work they do is both diverse and impactful. From supporting young people and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples into employment, to delivering skills development, vocational training, and capacity building for like-minded charitable organisations, WorkVentures is helping to build stronger, more inclusive communities.

Recognising that education is not one-size-fits-all, their highly successful Youth Employment Services (YES) team provides wraparound support for diverse young people through paid traineeships that offer hands-on experience and real career pathways.

Their Cyber Security Training Program boasts a 90% completion rate and a 100% job placement outcome while their Partnerships with Purpose initiative has created business and community service traineeships for First Nations people, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and people with disability – nsuring that lived experience shapes more effective, inclusive support systems.

With national Indigenous employment rates still alarmingly low – less than 50% compared to 75% for non-Indigenous Australians – WorkVentures is deeply committed to closing this gap through targeted, culturally aware training and employment pathways.

When asked why they do this work, their answer is clear: “Because it’s right. Because it matters. And because it works.”

Holding onto work

Finalist – Employer of the Year Award 2025

In the heart of Far North Queensland lies Yarrabah – a small Aboriginal community with a population of 4,000 people – but rich in culture and history.

But like many remote communities, Yarrabah has faced ongoing challenges when it comes to employment, especially for its young people. Over 53% of the population is under 25 and youth unemployment is 35% – but limited local jobs available compounded by unreliable telecommunications, seasonal isolation and limited public transport.

That’s where Wugu Nyambil Ltd – which means “Holding onto Work” – steps in.

Born from community vision and led by Indigenous voices, Wugu Nyambil creates real employment pathways for young people aged 17-26 years old in Yarrabah.

A finalist in The King’s Trust Australia 2025 Employer of the Year Awards, Wugu Nyambil recognises the unique and complex barriers young people face. What sets the organisation apart is its approach – all staff are local First Nations people with deep roots in the community that support strong, trusted relationships with participants.

Whether a young person needs support with education, job readiness, mental health referrals, or relocation assistance, Wugu Nyambil walks alongside them every step of the way.

The organisation’s impact doesn’t stop at job placements. Wugu Nyambil also works to create opportunities within the community – like developing new business ideas, supporting social enterprises, and advocating for broader access to training and employment.

At its core, Wugu Nyambil believes that young people are the future leaders of Yarrabah. Empowering them to achieve their goals is not just about individual success, it’s about building a strong, self-determined future for the whole community.

By continuing to “hold onto work,” Wugu Nyambil is holding onto much more – community pride, cultural strength, and the future of Yarrabah.

Find out more: https://wugunyambil.com.au