Following our announcement of the Women in Defence Awards 2026 finalists, ADM will be introducing each of our amazing finalists across the categories in more detail. Today we are focusing on the finalists in our People and Culture category.
In this category, judges were looking for entries that developed and /or administered outstanding initiatives to support women that have had a significant impact within the defence community, with additional evidence of having overcome professional or personal challenges to do so.
The winners and Hall of Fame inductee will be announced at a gala dinner at The National Arboretum, Canberra, on 29 October 2026. Book your tickets here – we hope to see you there!
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Alison Petchell As co-chair of the Delivery Groups Gender Diversity Action Group, Alison translated advocacy into measurable outcomes for a workforce of more than 8,500. She championed Defence's menopause awareness training, reaching over 680 participants, and led Women in Capability Delivery initiatives that opened forums to more than 300 women, building visibility, confidence and durable career pathways in traditionally underrepresented roles. |
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Lucinda Casey Operating entirely in a voluntary capacity, Lucinda provided high-quality advocacy to veterans and serving members navigating complex compensation and rehabilitation systems. Through her work as a DVA Compensation and Wellbeing Advocate, Lucinda supported women through immensely difficult circumstances, including sexual trauma, family violence and medical discharge cases, and mentored younger female staff through high-risk matters at the Veterans Support Centre. |
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Michelle Ryan Michelle created the ADF's first formal Return to Work Program to support women returning from maternity leave, addressing a longstanding retention gap now recognised under Navy's Stay On-board, People First campaign. Leading eight regional units supporting over 1,100 Navy members, she built a culture of psychological safety while mentoring women through the Navy Women's Mentoring Program and championing initiatives like Menopause Matters. |
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Natasha Hilbers In 2025, as Founder of She Served AU, Natasha completed a successful 12-month Veteran Sandbox trial at Bunbury Regional Hospital, now positioned for national rollout, and advanced a program providing veterans experiencing homelessness with a digital address. She also presented Dexter's Policy to the Minister, seeking support for discharged military working dogs and launched She Spoke in Silence for survivors of service-related trauma. |
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Taryn Dickens PLY In 2025, Taryn qualified for the Australian team at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Paralympics in biathlon cross-country skiing as a blind skier, while maintaining her full-time role. A prominent advocate and Homefront Australia ambassador, she volunteered her own time, at chaplaincy's request, to support a Defence member through a traumatic injury, and mentors others through the Defence Community Dogs program. |
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