Carrie Bickmore Named 2026 Australian of the Year for Victoria
Carrie Bickmore, a well-known broadcaster and cancer fundraiser, has been awarded the 2026 Australian of the Year for Victoria. The honor was given during a ceremony in Melbourne on November 6, celebrating her impactful work in brain cancer research and advocacy.
Commitment to Brain Cancer Research
Bickmore’s dedication to combating brain cancer is deeply personal. Since 2015, she has raised more than $27 million to fund research aimed at finding a cure. This effort led to the founding of The Brain Cancer Centre in 2021, a pioneering facility that brings together top researchers.
The center has supported numerous projects across Australia and launched groundbreaking clinical trials, marking important progress in brain cancer treatment. This work is crucial because brain cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Australians under 40—a disease that affected Bickmore personally when she lost her husband Greg to it in 2010.
Other Honorees Recognized
While Bickmore’s accomplishments stand out, she is not the only Victorian honored this year. Bryan Lipmann AM, an elder advocate for the homeless, received the 2026 Senior Australian of the Year award for Victoria.
"Brain cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Australians under 40."
"Since 2015, Carrie Bickmore has raised over $27 million to support brain cancer research."
Author’s summary: Carrie Bickmore’s tireless efforts in brain cancer research have transformed funding and treatment progress in Australia, honoring her as a true beacon of hope.