Carrie Bickmore Named 2026 Australian of the Year for Victoria
Carrie Bickmore OAM, broadcaster and cancer fundraiser, was honoured as the 2026 Australian of the Year for Victoria at a ceremony held in Melbourne on November 6.
Contributions to Brain Cancer Research
Since 2015, Bickmore has raised over $27 million to combat brain cancer. In 2021, she founded The Brain Cancer Centre, which unites leading researchers in an effort to find a cure. The centre supports nationwide research projects and is pioneering groundbreaking clinical trials for brain cancer patients—the first trials of their kind globally.
"Brain cancer kills more Australian children than any other disease, and affects more people under 40 than any other cancer — including Bickmore's late husband, Greg, who passed away in 2010."
Other Victorian 2026 Australian of the Year Honourees
- Bryan Lipmann AM was named the 2026 Senior Australian of the Year for Victoria. He founded Wintringham, an organization providing safe housing and care for elderly, poor, and homeless individuals. Wintringham now supports 3,000 people with accommodation and home care services.
- Abraham Kuol received the title of 2026 Young Australian of the Year for Victoria.
Author's summary: Carrie Bickmore's dedication to brain cancer research and advocacy has earned her the prestigious 2026 Australian of the Year award for Victoria, alongside other remarkable Victorian honourees.