The nominees for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards from New South Wales (NSW) have been unveiled, showcasing a remarkable group of individuals dedicated to making significant contributions in their respective fields. Among the nominees are a distinguished neonatologist, a trailblazing marine scientist, a committed human rights advocate, and a compassionate humanitarian. The awards ceremony will take place on Australia Day Eve, January 25, 2026, in Canberra.
Announced on October 27, 2023, the NSW nominees will represent the state in four categories: Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year, and Local Hero for NSW. The finalists are part of a broader group of 134 Australians recognized for their extraordinary contributions across all states and territories.
The winners of the NSW awards will be revealed at a ceremony at the Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney on November 10, 2023. This event can be viewed online at australianoftheyear.org.au.
Mark Fraser AO CVO, CEO of the National Australia Day Council, emphasized the significance of this year’s nominees. He stated, “The nominees for the NSW awards inspire others through extraordinary achievements and contributions. They remind us we are all capable of so much, whether it’s a simple act of care which creates a movement or fighting for what is right.”
Profiles of the Nominees
Professor Nadia Badawi, a leading figure in neonatal care, has dedicated her career to saving the lives of critically ill newborns as co-head of the Grace Centre for Newborn Care at The Children’s Hospital in Westmead. Under her leadership, survival rates for critically ill newborns exceed 96%, making it one of the best facilities globally. As the Cerebral Palsy Alliance Chair of Research, she has significantly advanced the understanding and treatment of cerebral palsy, leading to a remarkable 40% reduction in rates of the condition in Australia.
Dr. Jennifer Matthews, a marine biologist, has made significant strides in ocean conservation. After witnessing coral bleaching during her first dive in Thailand in 2009, she has devoted her career to protecting marine ecosystems. Her research has led to the development of a coral “baby food” that doubles the survival rates of young corals, which is now being implemented in aquaculture and reef restoration projects across Australia. Additionally, she founded Big Blue Conservation, training volunteers and local communities in reef protection.
Nicholas Stewart, a prominent human rights lawyer, works tirelessly to provide justice for victims of LGBTIQ+ hate crimes. He has actively campaigned for legislative inquiries into these crimes, seeking accountability and support for affected individuals. His establishment of a pro bono clinic has provided crucial assistance to victims and their families, ensuring they receive the legal representation they deserve.
Dr. Alison Thompson has mobilized over 30,000 volunteers to provide humanitarian assistance in disaster zones worldwide. Her journey began on September 11, 2001, when she provided aid at the World Trade Center. Thompson founded Third Wave Volunteers, a global movement focused on disaster response, and has established early-warning systems for natural disasters, including the 2004 tsunami.
Senior Australians Making an Impact
The nominees for the Senior Australian of the Year include Professor Henry Brodaty, who has transformed the landscape of dementia care through innovative research and advocacy. His work at the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing has contributed significantly to understanding dementia risk and prevention, offering new hope to families affected by the condition.
Another nominee, Bob Holder, at 94, is recognized as the world’s oldest competitive cowboy. His storied career has inspired generations of riders, starting from humble beginnings at a young age. He continues to compete, promoting Australian rodeo culture worldwide.
Sue Mann, a home care nurse, has dedicated over 50 years to providing compassionate care to older Australians. Her pioneering nursing service has grown to become the largest home care provider in Australia, demonstrating her commitment to improving the lives of those in need.
Other nominees in this category include Peter Watson, who teaches older men to cook, fostering community and alleviating isolation, and Bob Holder, who remains an inspiring figure in the rodeo community.
The Young Australian of the Year nominees include Nedd Brockmann, who ran across Australia to raise awareness and funds for homelessness. He has raised over $8 million for charitable initiatives, inspiring others to take action against homelessness.
“My goal is to inspire others to make a difference in their communities,” said Brockmann.
Other young nominees include Jack Brown, who co-founded Talk2MeBro to promote mental health awareness, and Ruby Riethmuller, who advocates for mental health support for young people in rural and remote areas through her initiative, Womn-Kind.
The Local Hero for NSW nominees include Andrew and Lyndell Clark, who have brought STEM education to thousands of children through their robotics programs, and Kate Cleary, a social worker who has transformed a convent into a supportive environment for women recovering from addiction.
The diversity and impact of these nominees highlight the spirit of community and resilience present in New South Wales. As the awards approach, their stories continue to inspire and remind us of the potential for change driven by individuals dedicated to their communities.
