Carrie Bickmore Named 2026 Australian of the Year for Victoria
Carrie Bickmore, a well-known broadcaster and cancer fundraiser, received the 2026 Australian of the Year award for Victoria in a ceremony held in Melbourne on November 6. This honor acknowledges her impactful work in brain cancer research and advocacy.
Dedication to Brain Cancer Research
Bickmore's dedication to combating brain cancer has deep personal roots. Since 2015, she has raised more than $27 million to fund research aimed at finding a cure. Her efforts led to the founding of The Brain Cancer Centre in 2021, a cutting-edge facility that brings together leading Australian researchers.
The centre has supported numerous projects nationwide and launched pioneering clinical trials, marking a major step forward in brain cancer treatment. This is especially crucial because brain cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Australians under 40, a loss Bickmore knows well after losing her husband, Greg, to the disease in 2010.
Other Recognized Australians in 2026
Aside from Bickmore, other notable Victorians received awards this year. Bryan Lipmann AM, known for his advocacy for elderly homeless people, was honored as the 2026 Senior Australian of the Year for Victoria.
"Brain cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Australians under 40."
"Since 2015, she has raised over $27 million to support research initiatives aimed at finding a cure."
Author's summary: Carrie Bickmore’s tireless fundraising and advocacy have made a profound impact on brain cancer research in Australia, inspiring hope through innovation and personal resilience.