How a ballet dancer became a Young Australian of the Year finalist

November 13, 2025 BY James Taylor

Scientist and disability advocate Tim Harte was among only four finalists for Young Australian of the Year for Victoria for 2026. Photo: SUPPLIED

GNARWARRE scientist and disability advocate Tim Harte was among only four finalists for Young Australian of the Year in the 2026 edition of the Australian of the Year Awards for Victoria.

The nominees for Victoria were among 134 people being recognised across all states and territories, with the winners announced on Thursday last week at a ceremony at the Arts Centre Melbourne.

After acquiring multiple disabilities at 19, Mr Harte switched paths from a promising ballet career to champion global disability rights and sustainable energy solutions.

Now 26, Mr Harte’s tireless advocacy includes voluntary positions with environmental, youth affairs and local government bodies as well as disability organisations. Most recently, he represented Australia at the United Nations 18th Conference of State Parties.

As a PhD researcher at Deakin University and CSIRO, Mr Harte has developed new sustainable energy storage materials designed to make renewable energy more efficient.

Alongside research work, the Gnarwarre resident advocates for greater accessibility in STEM environments to open up research opportunities for people with disabilities.

Last year, he co-founded the ChemAbility Network for the Royal Australian Chemical Institute to support members with disabilities.

National Australia Day Council chief executive officer Mark Fraser said the Victorian nominees reflected the power of an individual to make a positive impact.

“The nominees for the Victorian awards share a sense of passion and purpose.

“From lives spent advocating for others, selflessly giving to care for those in need, finding new ways to solve problems or create change, they are all driven by a sense of caring.”

The Victorian award winners will now join other state and territory recipients as finalists for the national awards announcement, which will take place in Canberra on January 25, 2026.

For more information on the Australian of the Year Awards, head to australianoftheyear.org.au