Carrie Bickmore Named 2026 Australian of the Year for Victoria
Broadcaster and cancer fundraiser Carrie Bickmore OAM was honored as the 2026 Australian of the Year for Victoria at a ceremony held in Melbourne on November 6.
Honoring a Personal Journey
"It's really bittersweet to be honest, because I wouldn't be here unless my late husband had died," Ms Bickmore said in her acceptance speech. "And so, while I graciously accept the award, if I could go back and make that little 21-year-old young Carrie not have to watch her boyfriend have a seizure in bed and then endure a nine-year battle with brain cancer, I would do that."
Fundraising Achievements
Since 2015, Bickmore has raised over $27 million for brain cancer research, showing remarkable dedication to advancing medical science in Australia.
"We bat above our average in this country when it comes to medical research and science, we are extraordinary," Ms Bickmore stated. "Our brain cancer centre has some of the greatest minds in this country at the moment. We have clinical trials happening, which is not something I could have ever imagined, that will hopefully one day save lives."
The Brain Cancer Centre
- Established by Bickmore in 2021
- Brings together top researchers to find a cure
- Supports nationwide research projects
- Delivers groundbreaking clinical trials for brain cancer patients—the first of their kind globally
The Brain Cancer Centre is at the forefront of research and clinical innovation, striving to improve outcomes for those affected by brain cancer.
Summary: Carrie Bickmore’s dedication has raised millions for brain cancer research, pioneering innovative clinical trials and uniting leading experts to fight this devastating disease.