After two years of dedicated training, 18 Guide and Assistance Dogs have officially graduated from Guide Dogs WA, ready to make a life-changing impact across the state.
The dogs were celebrated at a graduation ceremony recognising their work in supporting people with low vision, autism, trauma, and other disabilities.
Their training prepares them to offer not just guidance, but companionship, confidence, and independence.
Local Government and Disability Services Minister, Hannah Beazley, praised the milestone and those behind it, including the volunteers, trainers, and handlers who played key roles in the dog’s journeys.
“These dogs will go on to make a life-changing difference to people with disability, empowering them to lead more independent and inclusive lives to the benefit of the entire community.”
The graduates include nine Guide Dogs, eight Companion Dogs, and one Facility Dog, who will assist in hospitals, courts, and schools. Each one was bred, raised and trained right here in WA, thanks to the Cook’s Government’s $10 million in total investment in the program since 2021.
Guide Dogs WA is the only organisation in the state that provides such a wide range of trained support dogs, including Therapy and Autism Assistance Dogs.
The program’s local expansion has already led to the delivery of more than 150 puppies and created new jobs for trainers, cutting reliance on interstate and overseas resources.
Guide Dogs WA CEO, Anna Presser, said the support from the State Government is helping transform lives.
“With the support of the State Government, we are dedicated o breeding and training lifechanging Guide and Assistance Dogs that bring joy and independence to the Western Australian community.”
