Our team works hard for the people of WA, we’re passionate about making a difference in the lives of West Aussies and working hard to make patients, carers, loved ones – all health consumers – are at the centre of our healthcare system to make healthcare fair.
We’d like you to meet Kerrie, Senior Advocate
How long have you worked at HCCWA
I started working at HCCWA in August, 2017.
What inspired you to work at HCCWA?
I spent a decade working in biological science within a hospital system, and while I valued the work, I felt drawn to a profession where I could support people more directly. After completing a Bachelor of Social Science (Counselling), I moved into counselling and worked in private practice, and for a charity organisation, passionate to be starting a new career working alongside people in human services.
When a part-time Advocate role became available at HSA, Advocacy—especially in health—felt like the perfect blend of my curiosity for health science and my commitment to helping others. I quickly realised this was where my skills and values truly aligned. The work has let me build strong, respectful relationships and has allowed me the privilege to advocate for fair outcomes for consumers. It’s an organisation grounded in justice for equitable health outcomes, and I am proud to make advocacy at HSA my sole focus over the years
Describe what you do at HCCWA
I am an Individual Advocate who supports consumers of the WA health system to ensure their rights under the Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights are upheld, their voices are heard, and barriers or inequities are addressed. I also guide and empower people to advocate for themselves by providing tailored advice, clear information, system navigation support, and appropriate referrals, while constructively reminding services of their person-centred care obligations when needed.
What do you think about HCCWA and the work we do?
HCCWA is a great place to work and we do, great work!! We play a vital role in paving the way towards a fair and equitable health care system in WA. At HCCWA, we believe this is something that can be brought about and we are working hard to achieve it.
There are no other services providing free, individual advocacy across the entire state health system and our scope is wide and varied. Our service is both unique and essential, and it has contributed to meaningful improvements in health outcomes for many of the consumers we’ve supported.
How do you see your work helping to improve outcomes and experiences for everyone in WA?
I see my role as an Individual Advocate as helping people understand their healthcare rights and how to confidently exercise them. Many have shared that they felt genuinely heard—sometimes for the first time. We prioritise a truly person-centred, pure-advocacy approach, taking the time to ensure each individual feels supported and respected. My aim is that each person leaves our service feeling more informed, empowered, and capable than when they first engaged with us.
Ever met anyone famous?
I had a great long chat with John Farnham over the phone, when I donated to telethon back in the late 80’s. Before that, my biggest brush with fame was meeting Fat Cat when I was presented with an award for the “Best decorated bike”!