MIDLAND resident Mechelle Turvey has been recognised in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours, receiving the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her service to Indigenous communities and work supporting victims of crime.

The OAM is one of Australia’s highest civilian honours and recognises people who have made significant contributions to their communities.

WA Police announced the honour this week, citing Ms Turvey’s contribution as Assistant Director of Aboriginal Affairs and her advocacy for understanding, compassion and community responsibility.

According to WA Police, Ms Turvey has helped improve engagement with victims of crime through the Take 5 victim engagement training program for police recruits and has supported Aboriginal families through trauma while promoting culturally safe practices.

The award also recognised her role in strengthening trust through listening and respectful engagement across the community.

The honour follows years of community advocacy for which Ms Turvey has become well known across Perth’s eastern suburbs.

In 2023, she was named Midland NAIDOC Female Elder of the Year and told Echo News she accepted the award in honour of her son Cassius Turvey.

Following her son’s death in 2022, Ms Turvey became a prominent voice for community healing and support, encouraging young people to honour his legacy through positive action.

She also worked with WA Police to develop the Take 5 victim engagement training program, drawing on her own experiences to help officers better understand the needs of victims and their families.

Ms Turvey encouraged officers to be the ‘good cop’ not the ‘robo-cop’.

Last year, Echo News reported on Ms Turvey’s visit to Swan View Senior High School.

As reported in Swan View Senior High School enjoy police visit she spoke with students about building trust between police and the community and encouraging young people to consider careers in policing.

“Yarning is the greatest tool to break down barriers,” she said.

“Creating and building upon respectful and trusting relationships between police and community is vital.

“Starting this in the school yards is a great start.”