Among the inspiring Queenslanders nominated for the 2026 Australian of the Year is Distinguished Professor Ben Mathews, recognised for his groundbreaking work in child abuse research. A leading voice in child protection law and policy, Ben Mathews has dedicated his career to improving the lives of vulnerable children through innovative research and engagement with legislators and policy-makers to influence evidence-based reform.
Joining Distinguished Professor Ben Mathews as nominees for Australian of the Year for Queensland 2026 are:
- Nicole Dyson – Entrepreneurial educator
- Mark Forbes and Gayle Forbes – Eating disorder recovery
- Dr Rolf Gomes – Mobile health pioneer
Each nominee exemplifies the spirit of service, innovation, and compassion that defines our nation. ACHLR congratulates Ben Mathews for this well-deserved recognition.
More information
The Queensland award recipients will be announced on Wednesday 12 November 2025 in a ceremony at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. You can watch this ceremony online at the Australian of the Year website.
They will then join other state and territory recipients as finalists for the national awards announcement on 25 January 2026 in Canberra.