The Patrons of the Channel Seven Telethon Trust are:

Patron - His Excellency Malcolm McCusker AO QC

It has always been tradition for the Governor of W.A. to be the patron of Telethon.  As W.A.’s 31st Governor, Malcolm McCusker has a passion for social justice and is committed to helping those less fortunate than himself. 

From humble beginnings, Malcolm has reached the highest pinnacle of the legal profession as Queen’s Counsel, and is the most senior practising QC in Western Australia.  For many years Malcolm has worked to improve the lives of Australian people, championing community causes and encouraging others to recognise the importance of giving back to Australia. 

His charity work has been prolific and covered all areas of need. He has donated in excess of $20 million and provided many hours of volunteer service.  His philanthropic goal of educating and encouraging Australians to give back to their community is unique in its approach.

Patron - Prof Fiona Stanley AC

Named Australian of the Year in 2003, Professor Stanley is a vocal advocate for the needs of children and their families.  She studied medicine at the University of Western Australia and practised in hospitals for two years before going to the United Kingdom and USA for further training. 

Professor Stanley is the founding Director of the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research, established in Perth in 1990.  She is a Professor in the School of Paediatrics and Child Health at the University of Western Australia.  Professor Stanley is also the Chair of the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth, a national collaboration of researchers, policy makers and practitioners from a broad range of disciplines.  

In 2004, Professor Stanley was honoured as a “National Living Treasure” by the National Trust.  She is the UNICEF Australia Ambassador for Early Childhood Development.