Francine Eades and Vanessa Elliott recognised in King’s Birthday Honours for dedicated service

We are delighted to announce that East Metropolitan Health Service (EMHS) Area Director of Aboriginal Health Francine Eades and Board Member Vanessa Elliott have been recognised in the prestigious 2024 King’s Birthday Honours list.

Anyone who knows Francine or has had the pleasure of working with her, will know she is a very deserving recipient of the Public Service Medal (PSM).

Francine was recognised for her outstanding public service through improving health outcomes for Aboriginal people during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2021, Francine was appointed the Aboriginal health lead of the Western Australian Department of Health COVID-19 Vaccination Program (WACVP). She provided policy advice and guidance on the complex and challenging issues impacting the access to, and uptake of vaccines for Aboriginal people in WA.

Vanessa has been made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to the Indigenous community, to the mining industry, and to public administration. 

Currently serving on the EMHS Board, she is committed to nation building with a focus on healing ecological trauma. She has served on boards linked to conservation, mine closure, economic inclusion, and enabling infrastructure.

Her core belief is that healing begins with care for Country, community and families; and that at our most vulnerable moments, it’s our health system that is critical to our State’s wellbeing.

Both Francine and Vanessa are committed to supporting systems and structures that are inclusive and bring healing, hope and honour for all.

Congratulations Francine and Vanessa!