Leadership, resilience and community service took centre stage as the NSW Women of the Year Awards 2026 honoured remarkable women and a women-led organisation whose work continues to shape communities across New South Wales. The annual awards recognise individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment, compassion and leadership while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Among this year’s top honours, Professor Tracey O’Brien AM was named the NSW Premier’s Woman of Excellence. A leading cancer clinician, researcher and advocate, Professor O’Brien has dedicated her career to improving outcomes for people living with cancer. Now serving as the NSW Chief Cancer Officer, she continues to work across healthcare, government and communities to ensure equitable and culturally safe cancer care for all Australians.
Adjunct Professor Nicole Turner, a proud Kamilaroi woman, received the NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year award. With more than three decades of experience in Aboriginal health, Turner currently leads the Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council as CEO, collaborating closely with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations across the state to strengthen culturally appropriate healthcare services.
The NSW Community Hero recognition went to the Founders of Gidget Foundation Australia, a group of seven women who have spent more than two decades championing mental health support for parents. Since its establishment, the foundation has grown into a vital support network, operating 39 Gidget Houses and delivering over 108,000 appointments, helping more than 12,700 families dealing with perinatal depression and anxiety.
In regional New South Wales, Jo Marshall was recognised as the NSW Regional Woman of the Year for her work empowering rural communities. Through initiatives such as the Australian Agricultural Centre and the Women in AG program, Marshall continues to support the next generation of agricultural leaders by providing education, practical training and opportunities for young people across regional Australia.
The NSW Young Woman of the Year honour went to Milli Weaver, founder and CEO of the Australian Endometriosis Foundation. Weaver launched the organisation at just 24 years old to address the lack of peer-led support and advocacy for young Australians living with endometriosis. What began as a small online initiative has grown into a national platform helping thousands navigate menstrual health and chronic illness challenges.
The awards also celebrated the achievements of 10 inspiring girls aged between 7 and 15, recognised in the Ones to Watch category for their acts of courage, kindness and leadership in supporting their communities. In addition, Members of Parliament acknowledged Local Women of the Year across different electorates for their contributions to community life.
Held at the International Convention Centre Sydney, the ceremony is the flagship event of NSW Women’s Week 2026, running from 2 March to 8 March, culminating in International Women’s Day. Since its launch in 2012, the NSW Women of the Year Awards have continued to highlight the determination, leadership and advocacy of women and girls whose efforts are helping build a stronger and more inclusive New South Wales.
