HaDSCO Celebrates 30 Years of Service and Farewells Director Sarah Cowie

Last month, the Health and Disability Services Complaints Office (HaDSCO) marked a significant milestone, celebrating 30 years of service to the Western Australian community. The event also provided an opportunity to farewell Director Sarah Cowie, who retired after more than 10 years in the role.

Hosted at Albert Facey House, the celebration brought together current and former staff, government representatives, partner agencies, consumer advocates and sector stakeholders who have supported HaDSCO throughout its history.

The event was attended by the Minister for Health; Mental Health; Preventative Health, the Hon Meredith Hammat MLA, who delivered remarks recognising both HaDSCO's contribution over the past 30 years and the leadership of Sarah Cowie.

Since its establishment, HaDSCO has played an important role in providing an independent, accessible avenue for complaints about health, disability and mental health services. Through complaint resolution, education and engagement, the office has helped improve services and strengthen consumer confidence across Western Australia.

The anniversary celebration provided an opportunity to reflect on three decades of achievements, recognise the contributions of past and present staff, and acknowledge the many organisations and individuals who have worked alongside HaDSCO to improve outcomes for consumers and service providers.

The event also recognised the outstanding contribution of Sarah Cowie. During her tenure as Director, Sarah provided thoughtful leadership and a steadfast commitment to fairness, integrity and continuous improvement. Her work helped shape HaDSCO's reputation as a trusted and independent complaints body and strengthened its contribution to improving services for Western Australians.

As HaDSCO enters its fourth decade of service, the organisation remains committed to resolving complaints, improving services and promoting better outcomes for people who use health, disability and mental health services throughout Western Australia.

HaDSCO thanks Sarah for her significant contribution and wishes her every success and happiness in retirement.