Professor Richard Scolyer, a distinguished cancer researcher and advocate, will be honored with a state funeral, his wife Dr. Katie Nicholl confirmed on Sunday. The memorial service is scheduled to take place at the Sydney Opera House on Monday, July 13, at 11 a.m. Public tickets will be available through the Opera House website.
Professor Scolyer died earlier this month at the age of 59 after a battle with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer he was diagnosed with in May 2023. His groundbreaking work in skin cancer research is credited with saving thousands of lives. He was named co-Australian of the Year in 2024 alongside his colleague Professor Georgina Long for their efforts in transforming cancer treatment by activating the patient's immune system, offering hope and healing.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had previously announced that Professor Scolyer would receive a state funeral in recognition of his significant contributions. "As the joint 2024 Australian of the Year, Professor Scolyer took his place in the national spotlight with determination and purpose as he very publicly dealt with his glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer," Albanese stated. He added, "Every day, this remarkable man – the cancer specialist who became his own subject – took us into his confidence, and he lifted us all in the process."
In a posthumously shared letter, Professor Scolyer expressed a desire to be remembered as a "proud everyday Aussie" who always "gave it a crack." He wrote, "I haven't sugar-coated my journey and I sincerely thank you for allowing me the space and opportunity to share it with you, warts and all."
Professor Scolyer passed away while in palliative care in Sydney. In September 2025, Prime Minister Albanese unveiled a $5.9 million commitment to establish the Richard Scolyer Chair in Brain Cancer Research at the Chris O'Brien Lifehouse in Sydney. The Prime Minister lauded Professor Scolyer and Professor Long as representatives of "the very best of this country."
Throughout his career, Professor Scolyer received numerous accolades, including being appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2021 for his distinguished service to medicine, particularly in the field of melanoma and skin cancer. He was also a World Health Organization expert member and garnered multiple international awards. Additionally, he represented Australia as an age-group triathlete, and his book "Brainstorm," co-authored with Garry Maddox, won Social Impact Book of the Year at the 2025 Australian Book Industry Awards. Despite his achievements, Professor Scolyer maintained a humble outlook, stating he never sought honors but aimed only to make a difference. He also expressed hope that his legacy would inspire others to pursue their passions with humility, love, and compassion.