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We are proud to announce that Professor Nadia Badawi AM, Chair of Research at Cerebral Palsy Alliance, has been nominated for the 2026 NSW Australian of the Year.
As Chair of Research at Cerebral Palsy Alliance (CPA), Professor Badawi has driven a major shift in our understanding of cerebral palsy in the last twenty years. Her stewardship of a groundbreaking research team and collaboration with research organisations has led to breakthroughs that have contributed to a 40 % reduction in the rate and severity of cerebral palsy (CP) in Australia – one of the lowest rates of CP in the world.
The CPA Research team continues to support global efforts like initiating the Global CP Register Initiative to improve outcomes for children with CP in low- and middle-income countries, where access to service, early detection and intervention is most limited.
Nadia is an innovative neonatologist and co-head of the Grace Centre for Newborn Care at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, where under her leadership, survival rates for critically ill newborns exceed 96%, among the best in the world.
Her collaborative style, commitment to early intervention and solid focus on improving outcomes for infants and families have reshaped neonatal and disability care both nationally and internationally.
“We are delighted that Professor Badawi’s transformative work is being recognised,” said Rob White, CEO of Cerebral Palsy Alliance. “Her vision and leadership have made a huge difference to children, families and the disability sector in Australia.”
The nomination reflects Cerebral Palsy Alliance’s ongoing commitment to supporting visionary research and translating scientific breakthroughs into real-world impact.
Cerebral Palsy Alliance is a centre of excellence in research, services, technology, education and advocacy and its Research Institute is recognised globally for its leadership in cerebral palsy research with many of the team in the top 1% of global researchers. Their expertise and specialisation in key cerebral palsy research areas continues to drive innovation and improve support across every stage of life for people living with cerebral palsy.
