Carrie Bickmore Named 2026 Australian of the Year for Victoria
Broadcaster and charity advocate Carrie Bickmore OAM has been announced as the 2026 Australian of the Year for Victoria. The award was presented at a ceremony in Melbourne on November 6.
Dedication to Brain Cancer Research
Since 2015, Bickmore has helped raise over $27 million to fund brain cancer research. In 2021, she launched The Brain Cancer Centre to unite Australia’s top medical researchers in the search for a cure.
The centre coordinates national research projects and supports groundbreaking clinical trials for patients – the first of their kind globally.
“Brain cancer kills more Australian children than any other disease, and more people under 40 than any other cancer,” the organisation stated, referencing Bickmore’s late husband Greg, who died from the illness in 2010.
Other 2026 Victorian Honourees
- Bryan Lipmann AM was named the 2026 Senior Australian of the Year for Victoria. He founded Wintringham, a service offering secure housing and support to elderly people experiencing homelessness. The organisation now assists more than 3,000 people across the state.
- Abraham Kuol received the title of 2026 Young Australian of the Year for Victoria, recognising his leadership and community contributions.
Author’s Summary
Bickmore’s long-term dedication to brain cancer awareness and research has earned her Victoria’s highest honour for community impact in 2026.