Australian of the Year

Clyde Campbell has transformed research into Parkinson’s disease in Australia through his work with the Shake It Up Australia Foundation. 

Clyde was diagnosed with Parkinson’s when he was 44 years old and it changed his life. It launched him on a remarkable journey of campaigning and fundraising on behalf of people living with Parkinson’s. 

Clyde set up the Shake It Up Australia Foundation in 2011 with the goal of funding research to find improved therapies and, ultimately, a cure for Parkinson’s. Since then, more than $40 million has been raised for 24 institutions to fund research into the disease. Clyde funds the administration costs of the organisation himself, ensuring that all donations go towards research efforts. 

Clyde’s leadership and generosity of spirit have inspired a community of researchers, clinicians, donors and volunteers to work together in advancing treatments and knowledge of the condition.