Unplugging Addiction: An Interview with WA 2026 Australian of the Year, Daniela Vecchio
Dr Daniela Vecchio is on a mission to help kids have a safe and healthy relationship with the online world. In 2022, she founded Australia’s first gaming disorder clinic in a public hospital, to help young people and their families navigate and recover from online addictions.
Four years later, Daniela was named WA’s 2026 Australian of the Year – acknowledgement not only for her work and impact, but for the people she has helped, and continues to help, in the clinic.
Auspire caught up with Daniela to find out more about her journey in Western Australia, as a psychiatrist and celebrated Australian.
Tell us about your Australian story.
I moved to Australia in 2013 with my family because I wanted to explore working in a different health system, and my skills as a consultant psychiatrist were needed. I thought that Western Australia would provide a good environment and opportunities for my children to grow. I have met wonderful people who have supported me in my journey. I have also been able to develop my interest in medical management, which brings its own challenges.
The challenges have been adapting to a new health system and culture, and the challenges of medical management, including keeping the patient voice and clinical leadership central, supporting colleagues, and working within system and financial constraints.
What does being Australian mean to you?
Feeling safe and having the opportunity to grow as a person, and also to grow the services.
What are some of the positive effects you’ve seen as a result of your research and support clinic?
I have seen reduction in time spent online, improved relationships with families, being able to go back to school, being able to start volunteering and paid employment.
Why is it important for you personally to contribute in this way?
I’ve seen the impact of health issues in my own family, and I understand the importance of supporting both the individual and their family. It’s important to connect people to their community, to their work, to their friends, to their family. It has been a guiding principle through all my life to help other people. In my view, it is an ethical responsibility to help other people and try to make the world a better place.
How did it feel to be recognised as WA’s 2026 Australian of the Year?
It gave to me the affirmation that the work at the clinic is important, is valued, and the young people suffering with digital addiction are recognised. It allowed me to meet many wonderful and inspiring people, and establish friendships and partnerships. There have been many opportunities to raise awareness with media interviews and presentations.
What are the next steps for preventing gaming disorders?
The next steps are to continue raising awareness and developing partnerships, but also to secure the funding to grow the clinic so we can treat more people and intervene earlier.
Nominate your Australian of the Year on the Australian of the Year Awards’ website.