Carrie Bickmore Named 2026 Australian of the Year for Victoria
Carrie Bickmore, a respected broadcaster and dedicated advocate for cancer research, has been named the 2026 Australian of the Year for Victoria.
The award was presented during a ceremony in Melbourne on November 6, honoring her years of leadership and tireless efforts to advance brain cancer research.
A Lifelong Commitment to Brain Cancer Awareness
Bickmore’s connection to the cause is deeply personal. After losing her husband, Greg, to brain cancer in 2010, she made it her mission to champion awareness and fund crucial scientific research.
Since 2015, her campaigns have raised more than $27 million to fund innovative studies and medical initiatives aimed at discovering more effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
The Brain Cancer Centre
In 2021, these efforts led to the founding of The Brain Cancer Centre — a collaborative research hub bringing together leading scientists from across Australia. The centre has supported numerous breakthroughs and introduced new clinical trials that have redefined the landscape of brain cancer treatment.
“Brain cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related death among Australians under 40,” Bickmore noted during her acceptance speech.
Recognizing Other Extraordinary Australians
Alongside Bickmore, Bryan Lipmann AM, an advocate for elderly homeless communities, was named the 2026 Senior Australian of the Year for Victoria.
Author’s Summary
Carrie Bickmore’s recognition as the 2026 Australian of the Year for Victoria celebrates her personal and professional drive to revolutionize brain cancer research through advocacy, funding, and collaboration.