Winner: Staff Member of the Year Award
Nicole Winters is a proud Dharug Woman working on Dharug Country.
As a Senior Aboriginal Health Education Officer in the Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) Palliative Care team, Nicole has helped shape what culturally safe, respectful, and compassionate end-of-life care looks like for Aboriginal patients and their families. Her work addresses systemic barriers to care by building trust, encouraging cultural understanding, and making sure Aboriginal voices are heard and respected in care planning.
Nicole’s role is key to achieving positive outcomes for patients and families, while also supporting staff across WSLHD to improve their cultural competence. She works with multidisciplinary teams, government and non-government agencies, and statewide networks to ensure services are inclusive, accessible, and responsive. Her leadership has helped shift understanding of palliative care within Aboriginal communities, encouraging engagement and reducing intergenerational trauma.
Nicole’s work is not only about clinical care—it’s about healing, dignity, and connection. Her contributions are transforming the health system from within and making a lasting difference in the lives of those she serves.
Meet the other finalists for the Staff Member of the Year Award.
The 2025 Staff Member of the Year Award is proudly sponsored by LeasePLUS.
