Southern Star Award

This is awarded to an overall winner selected from the 2026 team/project award winners.

2026 winner

LipReader initiative – Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospitals Group

A male speech patholgist demonstrates a mobile phone app to a male health professional

This initiative has transformed the patient experience by restoring communication for intensive care unit patients who are awake but unable to speak.

Using an AI‑powered lip‑reading phone app, the team enabled patients to clearly express needs, concerns and questions at a time when anxiety and loss of control are common.

The technology was shaped alongside people with lived experience, ensuring a focus on dignity, ease of use and what matters most to patients and families.

Feedback from consumer testing showed reduced frustration, clearer understanding and greater confidence for everyone involved.

By removing guesswork and supporting more responsive care, the initiative has improved trust, reduced distress and strengthened patient‑centred communication.

Congratulations to our other 2026 finalists

  • Safer stays for patients with diabetes – Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospitals Group
  • WBA program – Rockingham Peel Group
  • Cockburn Health Women's Mental Health Service – South Metropolitan Health Service Mental Health
  • AMU labelling solution for IV safety – Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospitals Group
  • Spinal bracing project – Peel Health Campus

See other 2026 Excellence Award winners.

This award sponsored by

Logo reads Serco

Sponsor of the Southern Star award.

Read about our 2026 SMHS Excellence Award sponsors.

Last Updated: 04/05/2026