Western Sydney Local Health District, in collaboration with the City of Parramatta, have been recognised with a 2025 Premier’s Award.
The awards reflect outstanding work of NSW public sector teams and individuals who drive innovation, deliver exceptional services, strengthen communities, and uphold integrity.
Australia’s first family-friendly Healthy Higher Density Living Guide, an initiative of, Western Sydney Local Health District’s Centre for Population Health in partnership with City of Parramatta Council and Cities for Play, won the award for Delivering innovative economic opportunities for the community.
Health Promotion’s Helen Ryan, co-ordinator of Healthy Places and whose team coauthored the guide, says that collaboration is at heart of the Guide’s success.
“The success of The Guide is truly the result of collaboration by many, over many years,” Helen said.
“We are very grateful to the strategic planners, designers, academics, and health colleagues who generously shared their expertise and helped make the Guide both practical and impactful,” Helen said.
Approaching the guide from a health perspective, she says it encapsulates the best of working together to create a healthier future.
“Creating healthy, compact and sustainable cities is a shared responsibility and we very much look forward to continuing this work together,” Helen said.
Acting Chief Executive Amanda Larkin says the award win conveys the brilliance and vision at Western Sydney Local Health District.
“This is a shining example of the incredible people that work in our district, determined to improve outcomes for people today and into the future,” Amanda said.
“The collaboration on this project will have a profound impact in Western Sydney and Australia more broadly,” Amanda said.
Noting that The Guide has won the Australian Urban Design award and the Planning Institute of Australia’s state and national awards, the Chief Executive said the impact already extends beyond the Health District’s borders.
“This guide has been recognised at local, state and national levels, improving planning and leading the way in urban health design, leaving a legacy that will last generations,” Amanda said.
With more than 4,412 downloads and national recognition, it is shaping healthier, inclusive cities that support community wellbeing and resilience.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said it’s an honour to win the award.
“Council is proud of this collaboration with Western Sydney Local Health District as we strive to provide the best health outcomes for families living in high density apartment buildings across our local area,” Cr Zaiter said.
“By 2036, it’s expected that 70% of City of Parramatta’s population will live in high density housing and the health and safety of our residents is our number one priority.”
“Partnerships like this are essential to Parramatta achieving our goal of becoming a world leader in health, technology, clinical research and wellbeing by 2050.”
Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said all finalists and winners should be recognised for their immense contribution.
“These awards highlight the important work done every day by public sector employees across NSW, often behind the scenes, to deliver essential services and improve outcomes for communities,” the Premier said.
“The finalists represent the best of our public service — people who show professionalism, care and a genuine commitment to making NSW a better place to live,” the Premier said.
Read more about healthy housing in Western Sydney LHD.