20 years of recognising healthcare excellence

Guests gathered at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre last night for the 20th Victorian Public Healthcare Awards, marking two decades of recognising the people, teams and organisations making a difference across Victoria's public health system.

The milestone gala brought together healthcare workers, volunteers, sector leaders and government representatives from across the state to acknowledge this year's finalists and winners, while reflecting on 20 years of achievements in publicly funded healthcare.

Since their inception, the awards have highlighted initiatives that have transformed care, tackled emerging challenges and improved health outcomes for Victorian communities. This year's recipients join a distinguished group of healthcare professionals, volunteers and organisations recognised over the past two decades.

This year, awards were presented across these categories:

• Care in the community
• Creating a sustainable and climate-resilient health system
• Excellence in mental health and wellbeing
• Excellence in aged care
• Excellence in value-based healthcare
• Excellence in women's health
• Excellence in Aboriginal health and wellbeing
• Excellence in equity, diversity and inclusion
• Celebrating a strong and sustainable workforce
• Partnering in healthcare
• Health Volunteer Team of the Year

The evening also featured the Premier's Health Service of the Year Awards, Victoria's highest honour for public health services. Presented across four categories, these awards recognise health services delivering outstanding results for the communities they serve and highlight the role strong leadership and service delivery play in improving healthcare across the state.

Volunteers were also recognised throughout the evening, reflecting the important role they play in hospitals, aged care services and community health settings. The ceremony included the Health Volunteer Honour Roll, which acknowledges volunteers who have dedicated more than 30 years of service to supporting patients, families and local communities.

As the Victorian Public Healthcare Awards celebrate their 20th year, they continue to provide an opportunity to share achievements, recognise contribution and highlight the work taking place every day across the state's public health system.

See the full list of winners and finalists.