Australian of the Year

Sam (Sam) Longmore’s life changed overnight when, at the age of 20, she sustained a spinal cord injury from two back‑to‑back car accidents that resulted in paralysis down her right side. Sam has used her story to help others see what’s possible by speaking at schools, businesses and community groups about resilience, rural life, mental health and road safety. 

Sam founded and runs multiple businesses across agriculture and events, and competes at a world level in disabled water skiing. Sam’s leadership is shaped not by theory but by lived experience: adaptability when plans collapse, resilience when circumstances harden, and the determination to do difficult things. 

In 2026, Sam wheeled 441 km across regional NSW – from Corowa to Yass – in eight days, raising $203,165 for rural mental health. She completed the journey despite relentless rain, rough roads, strong winds and a broken leg.  

Sam encourages people to think differently about challenges, change, and their own capabilities.