Viv Allanson named Charlestown electorate Local Woman of the Year for 2026

Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison has named aged care leader Vivienne “Viv” Allanson OAM as the electorate’s Local Woman of the Year for 2026, recognising her work in the sector and her involvement across the Hunter community.

The annual Local Women of the Year Awards highlight women nominated by their local Members of Parliament during NSW Women’s Week, which runs from 2–8 March. This year, 94 women have been nominated across the state.

A registered nurse by training, Ms Allanson has held a range of leadership roles, including CEO of Maroba Aged Care in Waratah, Chairperson of NSW Aged and Community Services, Vice-President of Aged and Community Services Australia, a Director of the Hunter Business Chamber, and as a founding member of the Hunter Ageing Alliance. She has previously been recognised as a finalist in the 2020 NSW/ACT Regional Achievement and Community Awards, and was also named Game Changer of the Year and Visionary CEO of the Year.

In 2023, Ms Allanson received an Order of Australia Medal in the King’s Birthday Honours List for services to aged care.

Ms Harrison said Ms Allanson had played a key role supporting local women through Mentor Walks and advocating for older residents, including during the challenges of COVID. “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,” Ms Harrison said.

Ms Allanson said the award was an encouragement after decades of work in nursing and aged care. “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,” she said. “I have appreciated the support and warmth of our region which has empowered me to action the fire in my belly.”

All Local Women of the Year are to be recognised at the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards ceremony at the International Convention Centre in Sydney on Thursday 5 March. Women who volunteer and live in regional, rural and remote NSW will also be acknowledged through the Hidden Treasures Honour Roll.