Today the Hon Jodie Harrison MP, Member for Charlestown, has named Vivienne (Viv) Allanson OAM as the Charlestown Local Woman of the Year for 2026 in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the aged care sector and the wider Hunter community.
The annual Local Women of the Year Awards celebrate visionary thinkers, everyday heroes, social advocates, and trailblazing role models who make a meaningful difference in their communities.
A registered nurse by training, Viv has long been a trusted voice in local and regional discussions on aged care, serving as the CEO of Maroba Aged Care in Waratah, Chairperson of NSW Aged and Community Services, Vice-President of Aged and Community Services Australia, Director of the Hunter Business Chamber, and founding member of the Hunter Ageing Alliance.
Throughout her career, Viv has received several accolades, including being recognised as a finalist in the 2020 NSW/ACT Regional Achievement and Community Awards and was named Game Changer of the Year and Visionary CEO of the Year.
In 2023, Viv was awarded the prestigious Order of Australia Medal in the Kings Birthday Honours List for her services to aged care.
This year, a total of 94 inspiring women have been nominated by their local Members of Parliament as part of NSW Women’s Week (2–8 March) - a week-long celebration that empowers women and promotes gender equality across the state.
All Local Women of the Year will be recognised during the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards ceremony, held at the International Convention Centre in Sydney on Thursday 5 March.
Women who volunteer and reside in regional, rural, and remote areas of NSW will also be honoured through inclusion in the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll - a public tribute acknowledging the countless women who generously give their time and energy to support others.
Learn more about the Women of the Year Awards and watch the livestream by visiting www.nsw.gov.au/wotya26.
For more information about the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll, visit: www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/women-nsw/rural-womens-network/hidden-treasures-honour-roll.
Quotes attributable to the Hon Jodie Harrison MP, Member for Charlestown:
“Viv is an exceptional role model in our community, and this recognition is a testament to her dedication to making the Charlestown electorate a better place for all.
“From supporting local women through Mentor Walks to championing the rights of older residents through the challenges of COVID, her leadership has inspired, empowered, and uplifted so many in our community.
“A huge congratulations to Viv- this recognition is truly well-deserved.”
Quotes attributable to Viv Allanson OAM, 2026 Charlestown Local Woman of the Year:
“What a lovely encouragement it is to have been nominated as the Local Woman of the Year for Charlestown and then to learn I have been awarded that great honour.
“It has been a great privilege and joy to serve our community for over five decades in the field of nursing, aged care, and advocacy for older Australians.
“I have appreciated the support and warmth of our region which has empowered me to action the fire in my belly. Thank you to all who have supported me over the decades!”
