Western Australia has revealed its distinguished recipients for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards, celebrating four exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions across medicine, conservation, community service, and youth leadership.
Meet Western Australia's 2026 Honourees
Dr Daniela Vecchio has been named Western Australia's Australian of the Year for 2026. The renowned Perth pain specialist has transformed pain management practices across Australia through her groundbreaking work at the Persistent Pain Service at Fiona Stanley Hospital.
Dr Vecchio's innovative approaches have revolutionized how chronic pain is treated, providing new hope for thousands of Australians suffering from persistent pain conditions. Her leadership in the medical community extends beyond clinical practice to mentoring future healthcare professionals and advocating for improved pain management services nationwide.
Conservation Champion and Community Heroes
Professor Kingsley Dixon AO receives the Senior Australian of the Year award for Western Australia. The acclaimed conservation biologist and John Curtin Distinguished Professor has dedicated his career to preserving Australia's unique flora, particularly through his pioneering work in restoring native ecosystems after mining operations.
Professor Dixon's research has been instrumental in developing successful methods for regenerating Australia's landscape, ensuring that mined areas can be returned to their natural state. His contributions to conservation science have earned him international recognition and numerous accolades throughout his distinguished career.
The WA Young Australian of the Year honour goes to Rikki Lambert, a passionate advocate for youth mental health and disability support. Lambert's personal journey and professional work have focused on creating inclusive communities and improving mental health services for young Australians facing challenges.
Betty (Gay) Harris has been recognized as WA's Local Hero for 2026. The dedicated volunteer has spent decades supporting her local community through various initiatives, demonstrating extraordinary commitment to improving the lives of those around her. Harris's selfless contributions have made a tangible difference in her community, inspiring others to engage in volunteer work.
National Recognition Ahead
These four Western Australian recipients will now join honourees from other states and territories as finalists for the national Australian of the Year Awards, which will be announced in Canberra in January 2026. The national ceremony represents the culmination of a process that recognizes outstanding achievement and service across Australia.
The Australian of the Year Awards have been celebrating exceptional citizens since 1960, honouring individuals who demonstrate excellence in their fields and make significant contributions to their communities. The awards categories include Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year, and Australia's Local Hero.
Western Australia has a strong history of producing national award winners, with recent recipients making substantial impacts in their respective fields. The 2026 cohort continues this tradition of excellence, representing the diverse talents and commitments that strengthen Australian society.
Community leaders have praised the selection of this year's recipients, noting that their achievements reflect the spirit of innovation, service, and dedication that defines Western Australia's contribution to the nation. The awards provide an important platform for these individuals to expand their work and inspire others to pursue positive change.
