Australia’s leading mental health advocates, researchers, clinicians and community members have been honoured at the Australian Mental Health Prize, recognising the extraordinary people whose leadership, compassion and innovation are transforming lives and strengthening communities across the nation.
The recipients were announced today at a ceremony in Sydney, where Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Emma McBride, presented the awards.
Now in its eleventh year, the Australian Mental Health Prize recognises outstanding individuals who are helping to build a mentally healthier Australia, shining a light on those whose leadership, innovation and lived experience are shaping the future of mental health through practical action, new treatments and research.
The Prize recognises outstanding achievement across four categories: Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, Lived Experience, Professional and Community Hero.
Recipients are selected by the Australian Mental Health Prize Advisory Board in recognition of their exceptional contributions to mental health and wellbeing.
2026 award winners
Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Prize: Dr Elizabeth McEntyre
Lived Experience Prize: Michael Elwan
Professional Prize: Professor Jayashri Kulkarni AM
Community Hero Prize: Luke Baker
Quotes attributed to Assistant Minister Emma McBride:
“Ever since the Mental Health Prize was established, I’ve been inspired by the extraordinary calibre of nominees.
“These are people who put others before themselves every single day, supporting individuals at some of the most challenging moments of their lives. To me, that reflects the very best of the Australian spirit.
“While we’ve made significant progress in building a mental health system that supports people when and where they need it, there is still more work to do. That’s why it’s so important we recognise and celebrate those who are helping drive that change in our communities every day.
“It is with great pleasure that I congratulate Dr Elizabeth McEntyre, Michael Elwan, Professor Jayashri Kulkarni AM and Luke Baker on this well-deserved recognition, and thank them for their extraordinary contributions to the mental health and wellbeing of Australians.”
