Eight Change Makers Nominated for 2026 Australian of the Year
In a celebration of outstanding achievement and dedication, eight remarkable Australians have been nominated for the prestigious 2026 Australian of the Year award. These nominees represent diverse fields, from healthcare and humanitarian aid to emergency response and space exploration, each making a significant impact on their communities and beyond.
A Diverse Group of Nominees
The nominees include the first Australian to qualify as an astronaut under the nation's space program, marking a historic milestone for Australian science and exploration. Another nominee is a digital addiction specialist who established the first publicly funded gaming disorder clinic in Australia, addressing a growing concern in modern society.
An emergency doctor who performed an underwater leg amputation to save the life of a trapped whitewater rafter is also among the nominees, showcasing exceptional bravery and medical skill. These stories highlight the nominees' extraordinary contributions to various aspects of Australian life.
International Impact and Humanitarian Efforts
Some nominees have made significant international contributions. Professor Rose McGready, ACT Australian of the Year, has dedicated 30 years to providing healthcare to displaced people in the border region between Thailand and Myanmar. She established a network of health clinics and training for local staff, and her research on maternal malaria treatments has been adopted by the World Health Organisation.
Alison Thompson OAM, NSW Australian of the Year, is a global humanitarian who founded Third Wave Volunteers. This organization coordinates volunteers to bring relief to disaster and war zones worldwide, deploying over 30,000 volunteers to assist more than 18 million people in countries like Ukraine, Syria, and Afghanistan.
Healthcare Innovators and Community Leaders
Dr Felix Ho ASM, NT Australian of the Year, is a medical practitioner who has served remote communities in the Northern Territory and volunteered as a mentor with the St John Youth Program. He equips Australia's youth with first aid skills to save lives in emergencies.
Dr Rolf Gomes, Queensland Australian of the Year, created the first Heart of Australia mobile "Heart Truck" to bring cardiac care to remote communities, promoting greater equality in healthcare access across the country.
Advocates for Youth and Research
The nominees also include a volunteer paramedic who developed a program teaching first aid to young people, a mobile health pioneer bringing diagnostic and clinical healthcare to rural areas, and a brain cancer fundraiser who established a research center to unite top minds in the search for a cure.
Awards Reflect Community Recognition
While the nominees come from varied backgrounds and fields, they share a common thread: each was nominated by a member of their community who believed their contributions deserved national recognition. This reflects the awards' emphasis on celebrating individuals who make a tangible difference in the lives of others.
The Significance of the Australian of the Year Awards
The Australian of the Year Awards honor individuals who inspire others through their achievements and commitment to improving Australian society. These awards highlight the nominees' efforts in science, health, community service, and humanitarian work, showcasing the diverse ways Australians contribute to the nation's progress.
As the nation awaits the announcement of the 2026 Australian of the Year, these nominees' stories serve as a reminder of the power of individual action and the impact one person can have on their community and the world.
