UPDATE: Global humanitarian and former investment banker, Dr. Alison Thompson OAM, has been named the 2026 Australian of the Year for NSW. The announcement was made during a ceremony in Sydney on November 10, marking a significant recognition for her extensive humanitarian work.
Dr. Thompson’s commitment to humanitarian efforts spans over 24 years. She first made headlines on September 11, 2001, when she rushed to the World Trade Center with her first aid kit. Since then, she founded the global movement Third Wave Volunteers, which has deployed over 30,000 volunteers to disaster zones, aiding more than 18 million people worldwide. Her initiatives include the establishment of the first Tsunami Early Warning Centre after the catastrophic 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
This prestigious honor places Dr. Thompson in contention for the national title, which will be awarded on January 25, 2026. Her work embodies the idea that “small skills can drive big changes,” a sentiment she has shared throughout her career.
Alongside Dr. Thompson, Professor Henry Brodaty, a dementia prevention advocate, was named the 2026 Senior Australian of the Year for NSW. At 78 years old, he has significantly influenced dementia research since co-founding the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing in 2012. Inspired by his father’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis in 1972, Professor Brodaty’s Maintain Your Brain trial has demonstrated effective, cost-efficient strategies for delaying dementia onset.
The 2026 Young Australian of the Year for NSW title was awarded to Nedd Brockman, a 26-year-old ultramarathon runner. He gained recognition after running 3,952 kilometers from Perth to Sydney in record time, raising over $2.6 million for homelessness during the journey. His initiative, Nedd’s Uncomfortable Challenge, has continued to raise awareness and funds, accumulating more than $8 million.
Additionally, Theresa Mitchell was named the 2026 Local Hero for NSW. A dedicated foster parent and advocate for the homeless, Ms. Mitchell has provided essential support to countless individuals through her charity, Agape Outreach Inc., over the past 16 years. She has fostered 37 children and her organization now operates with the help of over 300 volunteers across the Northern Rivers and Gold Coast.
Mark Fraser AO CVO, CEO of the National Australia Day Council, praised the award recipients, stating, “Alison not only shows us we can all help others, she enables people to help where it is needed most; Henry is changing the experience and treatment of dementia now and for the future; Nedd decided to help people in need and created a movement of care; and Theresa is the embodiment of care, giving dignity and support to vulnerable people.”
These four outstanding individuals will join their peers from other states and territories for the national awards, set to be announced in Canberra on January 25, 2026. Their achievements highlight the profound impact of community service and human resilience in the face of adversity.
Stay tuned for more updates as we follow these inspiring stories.
