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JAN STANDEN OAM
Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) January 2025

A Beacon of Love and Dedication

For over 25 incredible years, Grandcarers WA has been a pillar of support for grandcarers raising grandchildren. While our name has evolved – from Grandparents Rearing Grandchildren WA to Grandparents Raising Grandchildren WA- our heart and purpose have remained steadfast: to advocate for the recognition, rights, and support of all grandcarers in Western Australia.

This journey has been shaped by the unwavering dedication of so many – our founding members, life members, and the extraordinary volunteers who have poured their energy, passion, and love into this mission.
Amidst these shining stars, one light has burned exceptionally bright. Therefore, it is with profound joy and admiration that we celebrate the awarding of a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the 2025 Australia Day Honours to our very own Jan Standen.

Jan’s impact is immeasurable. From being named Senior West Australian of the Year in 2022 to this latest and richly deserved honour, her legacy is one of compassion, advocacy, and tireless service.
The OAM stands as a testament to the countless lives Jan has touched with her warmth, selflessness, and unwavering determination to uplift others. She embodies the spirit of love and resilience that lies at the heart of Grandcarers WA.

Jan is truly one of a kind—a shining light who inspires us all. Her kindness, dedication, and brilliance have left an indelible mark on every life she’s touched, and we are forever grateful.

Jan’s light not only brightens our community but reminds us all of the boundless power of love and generosity.

PAST PRESIDENT OF GCWA JAN STANDEN

2022 Senior West Australian of the Year

Declared the rockstar of the 2022 WA Australian of the Year Awards Jan Standen accepted her award, to rambunctious rounds of applause, saying it was for all grandparent carers. She will now leverage this political and PR platform to lobby for financial equality for grandparent carers as part of the Fairer Futures campaign.

Jan Standen being presented the Senior West Australian of the Year award