From a psychiatrist confronting the hidden harms of online addiction to young men reshaping conversations about masculinity, Western Australia’s 2026 Australian of the Year award recipients have been recognised for their commitment to change.
This year’s honourees include Dr Daniela Vecchio, Young Australians of the Year Gareth Shanthikumar and Dr Haseeb Riaz, Local Hero nominee Frank Mitchell, and Senior Australian of the Year Professor Kingsley Dixon.
Together, their work spans mental health, social justice, education and environmental protection.
While their paths are vastly different, each is driven by a shared commitment to improving lives across the State.
The WA nominees will be celebrated at Elizabeth Quay on Tuesday, before flying to Canberra next Sunday for the announcement of the Australian of the Year winners alongside nominees from across the nation.
2026 Australian of the Year for Western Australia: Dr Daniela Vecchio
Daniela Vecchio, 57, was born in Sicily where she qualified as a doctor and has spent the past 12 years working as a psychiatrist in WA.
She is being recognised for her pioneering work establishing Australia’s first specialised public hospital gaming disorder clinic.
She leads the gaming disorder clinic at Fiona Stanley Hospital, a service she said remains unique nationally.
“We are the first, and so far, the only specialised gaming disorder clinic in a public hospital in Australia,” she said.
Dr Vecchio said the national recognition came as a shock.
“I am very grateful for this award,” she said. “I did not expect this and it was a surprise.”
