DR ALISON HARCOURT AO

Alison (UWC 1947) was recognised as the 2019 Victorian Senior Australian of the Year. As a woman in mathematics and statistics in the 1950s, Alison’s pioneering work on integer linear programming raised little interest. This work is now recognised as contributing to efficient computer processing. Alison’s other research, on the poverty line and randomisation of ballot papers, led to a Royal Commission and electoral law changes. The University of Melbourne recently awarded Alison with the degree of Doctor of Science (honoris causa) – the highest honour the University can bestow on an individual. Alison was a student at UC, a resident tutor and Council Member and was made a Governor in 1971.