The NSW Government has named the 31 finalists in the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards.
Now in its 14th year, the awards program shines a light on women across the state who are improving lives, driving innovation, strengthening communities and inspiring future generations, said NSW Premier, Chris Minns.
“Every finalist represents the strength and diversity that defines NSW,” said Mr Minns.
“These women are changing the lives of those around them – not for recognition, but because they believe in lifting up their communities.
“I congratulate all of the finalists and commend them for going above and beyond in their respective fields.”
Recipients in each of the five award categories will be revealed at the Women of the Year Awards ceremony on Thursday 5 March at the International Convention Centre, Sydney.
“Women and girls across NSW are making a difference right across our state and these awards recognise their invaluable contributions,” said Minister for Women, Jodie Harrison.
“This year we receive an incredible number of nominations, every one of them showcasing a story of grit, compassion and remarkable achievement.
“Our 2026 finalists come from all corners of NSW and their work spans health, community services, business, culture, education and advocacy. Their contribution enriches our communities and sets an example for girls and women everywhere.”
The 2026 Women of the Year Awards finalists are:
NSW Premier’s Woman of Excellence
- Professor Tracey O’Brien AM – Lane Cove LGA
- Clare Pearson – The Hills Shire LGA
Prof O’Brien is a leading Australian cancer clinician, researcher and advocate whose career has centred on one mission: improving the lives of people with cancer. A haematologist–oncologist and former Director of the Kids Cancer Centre, she has led breakthroughs in precision medicine, and transplant and cellular therapies, while mentoring the next generation of clinician-researchers. Now NSW Chief Cancer Officer, she works across communities, government and science to ensure equitable, culturally safe cancer care for all.
Ms Pearson is the CEO of Little Wings, a not-for-profit organisation that provides free, professional and safe flight and ground transport services for seriously ill children in rural and regional NSW, ACT and Queensland. Under her leadership, Little Wings has achieved record service delivery, increasing flights and ground transport year on year. She is a qualified psychologist, specialising in child and adolescent welfare, and is passionate about working in not-for-profit and community-based projects. She has authored a book, Threads of Hope, that celebrates the lives of human trafficking survivors.
NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year
- Dr Aunty Rhonda Radley – Port Macquarie–Hastings LGA
- Adjunct Professor Nicole Turner – Port Stephens LGA
- Sharon Winsor – Mid‑Western Regional LGA
A proud Aboriginal woman from the Birrbay and Dunghutti countries, Aunty Rhonda embodies a profound connection to Country in all aspects of her life and work. She plays a key role in revitalising language and culture on the Mid-North Coast and serves as a board member for the Aboriginal Languages Trust. A respected Elder, educator, and mentor, she founded the Nyiirun Djiyagan Wakulda Women’s Festival, uniting hundreds of women in celebration of culture and wellbeing. Aunty Rhonda also founded “Point Plomer – Looking After Country,” promoting conservation and regeneration. Rhonda honours and protects cultural heritage, ensuring traditional knowledge is preserved and passed down to future generations.
NSW Community Hero
- Carolyn Campbell-McLean – Parramatta LGA
- Ruby Riethmuller – Northern Beaches LGA
Ms Riethmuller is the founder and CEO of Womn-Kind, a leading youth mental health organisation transforming the way young people access wellbeing education and support. Focused on adolescent girls and gender-diverse youth, Womn-Kind delivers innovative, low-intensity services through school workshops, a pioneering social wellness app, podcast and partnerships with schools, community groups and government. With an emphasis on accessibility and prevention, the organisation has already supported more than 30,000 young people, providing daily support to over 7,000 users across Australia and 37 countries. She also serves as Deputy Commissioner (Lived Experience) at the Mental Health Commission of NSW.
Gidget Foundation Australia Founders Group:
- Alexandra Berthold – Ku-ring-gai LGA
- Libby Bowditch – Northern Beaches LGA
- Jacqui Cotton – Northern Beaches LGA
- Stephanie Hughes – Waverley LGA
- Lou Hunter – North Sydney LGA
- Kim Mouret – Northern Beaches LGA
- Simone Short – Mosman LGA
NSW Regional Woman of the Year
- Jo Marshall – Upper Lachlan Shire LGA
- Amy Riddle – Coffs Harbour City LGA
- Jenny Worrell – Clarence Valley LGA
NSW Young Woman of the Year (16–30 years)
- Miranda McGufficke – Snowy Monaro Regional LGA
- Layne Paull – Central Coast LGA
- Milli Weaver – Randwick City LGA
- Dr Mithila Zaheen – Cumberland LGA
The Ones to Watch (7–15 years)
- Imali Bamji – Hunters Hill LGA
- Piper Clarke – Shoalhaven LGA
- Hafsa Faizan – Liverpool LGA
- Emma Hoskins – Blacktown LGA
- Amalia Carolyn Howard – Dubbo LGA
- Elly Ings – Northern Beaches LGA
- Hannah Orr – Goulburn Mulwaree LGA
- Ruvi Pooliyadde – Blacktown LGA
- Shanvi Govinda Raju – Penrith LGA
- Ivy Walker – Hornsby LGA
Learn more about the NSW Women of the Year Awards 2026 and finalists by visiting NSW Women of the Year Awards 2026 Finalists
Find out what other events are taking place during NSW Women’s Week 2026 at NSW Women’s Week 2026 | NSW Government. The NSW Women of the Year Awards ceremony will be livestreamed for everyone to celebrate these inspirational women and girls.
