The 2025 Nurse of the Year Award was presented to Murdoch University alumna Rhiannon Villiers.

The event honoured the vital work of WA’s 47,000 nurses and midwives, showcasing achievements across 14 award categories. Western Australia's outstanding nurses and midwives were celebrated at the 2025 WA Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Awards, which recognised exceptional contributions across public, private, and non-government health services.

The 2025 Nurse of the Year Award was presented to Murdoch University alumna Rhiannon Villiers, a registered nurse at Homeless Healthcare where she displays an unwavering work ethic and service above self to coordinate liaising between the practice, and tertiary and public health sectors. Rhiannon demonstrates a passion for nursing and goes above and beyond to make a difference in her area of practice.

One example is her open offer to assist the Boorloo Public Health Unit Syphilis Response Team in connecting or enabling treatment for vulnerable people experiencing homelessness and complex social circumstances, where she meets clients in parks and community centres offering support and treatment for medical conditions. Rhiannon has been touched by many moments where she has witnessed both the strength and fragility of the human spirit, and the grace and dignity with which people allow nurses into their lives during what is often their most vulnerable time.

Rhiannon is actively involved in advancing professional practice. She has collaborated with academic colleagues to publish in the Medical Journal of Australia, raising awareness about health disparities for women experiencing homelessness and providing advice on how outcomes could be improved. Her commitment, dedication, and support for syphilis testing through outreach initiatives has ensured no cases are missed in the homeless community significantly decreasing case numbers in this demographic.

Rhiannon is also passionate about mentoring other nurses and is seen by many as a go to person. She has a special talent for making a difference and her drive towards effective collaboration and continual contribution inspires others.

Rhiannon is excellent at building partnerships as she actively contributes on many committees and forums, coordinating events and education to raise awareness and stimulate conversations about sexual health.

Rhiannon’s commitment to improving health outcomes and mentoring fellow clinicians has made a profound impact on the healthcare sector.

Source: https://www.wanmea.com.au/2025/04/17/2025-excellence-in-primary-public-and-community-nursing-finalists/