Carrie Bickmore Named 2026 Australian of the Year for Victoria
Carrie Bickmore OAM, a broadcaster and brain cancer fundraiser, has been honored as the 2026 Australian of the Year for Victoria. The award was presented at a ceremony in Melbourne on November 6.
Contributions to Brain Cancer Research
Since 2015, Bickmore has raised over $27 million to support brain cancer research. In 2021, she founded The Brain Cancer Centre, which unites leading researchers to pursue a cure. The center is pioneering clinical trials for brain cancer patients, the first of their kind worldwide.
"Brain cancer kills more Australian children than any other disease, and more people under 40 than any other cancer," including Bickmore's late husband, Greg, who passed away in 2010.
Other Victoria Honorees in 2026
- Senior Australian of the Year: Bryan Lipmann AM, an elderly homeless advocate and founder of Wintringham, an organization that offers housing and care for the elderly, poor, and homeless. Wintringham currently supports 3,000 people.
- Young Australian of the Year: Abraham Kuol.
Author's summary: Carrie Bickmore was named Victoria's 2026 Australian of the Year for her impactful fundraising and pioneering efforts in brain cancer research.