Australian of the Year

Helen Lamech is a nurse whose education leadership has transformed diabetes care in Central Australia. Dedicating more than 30 years to nursing in the Northern Territory and the last decade to diabetes education, Helen has improved health outcomes for over 2000 people facing significant cultural and geographical barriers.  

Helen established the region’s first nurse‑led type 1 diabetes clinic and has mentored more than 30 diabetes educators and over 300 health professionals. Her trauma‑informed, culturally-responsive approach has reduced hospital admissions, improved safety and equipped families to manage diabetes with confidence.  

Working alongside Aboriginal health workers, elders and schools, Helen co‑designs programs that honour culture, build trust and create community‑led pathways to better diabetes management. Helen delivers care flexibly in clinics, homes, schools and community spaces, to ensure people feel safe, respected and in control of their health. 

Through proactive education and early intervention, Helen has dramatically enhanced the safety and wellbeing of thousands across the Territory.