19 December 2025
Broom Residential College’s ‘My place, my future’ campaign won the Commissioner for Children and Young People Award for Best Practice in Children’s Consultation at the Public Administration Australia WA’s (IPAA WA) Achievement Awards.
Developed by the Department’s communications team, the campaign was acknowledged for its strong cultural responsiveness, underpinned by meaningful consultation and deep listening with students.
Broom Residential College’s ‘My place, my future’ campaign won at the IPAA WA Achievement Awards.
Designed to position the college as a leading boarding option for secondary students in the Kimberley, the multi-channel campaign was co-created with students, rather than for them.
College residents took part in small-group workshops to share their authentic stories, using their own words and experiences.
Highly respected local photographer, Michael Jalaru Torres, was engaged to strengthen community connections and support culturally appropriate storytelling, ensuring students felt safe, respected and empowered throughout the process.
In parallel, college staff undertook a rolling program of community visits across Fitzroy Valley and the East Kimberley, building strong community relationships with schools and families.
The campaign has driven enrolments and successfully showcased the opportunities that Broome Residential College provides to prospective students and their families across the state.
The student-led approach has now been adapted for use across other residential colleges in Western Australia.
Senior Communications Consultant Emily Montini said the award was recognition for the project team’s commitment to deep listening and relationship building approach, empowering students to tell their own story.
“Sharing authentic stories of student success is one of the most powerful cultural tools we have,” said Mrs Montini.
“Broome Residential College provides fantastic opportunities for so many Kimberley kids and the efforts from the team there are making a huge difference every day.”
It was the 14th annual holding of the awards that recognise outstanding individuals and organisations across the Western Australian public service.
A full list of award winners is available on the IPAA website.