Key Takeaways
- Katherine Bennell-Pegg has been named Australian of the Year for 2026, becoming the first person to qualify as an astronaut under the Australian flag.
- Bennell-Pegg encourages young Australians to take an interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and to pursue careers in these fields.
- The Australian of the Year awards recognize outstanding Australians who have made significant contributions to their communities and the country as a whole.
- Other winners of the awards include Professor Henry Brodaty, who was named Senior Australian of the Year for his work in dementia treatment and prevention, and Nedd Brockmann, who was named Young Australian of the Year for his efforts to end homelessness.
- Frank Mitchell, a First Nations construction leader, was named Local Hero of 2026 for his work in creating opportunities for Indigenous young people in the construction industry.
Introduction to Katherine Bennell-Pegg
Katherine Bennell-Pegg, a space engineer and astronaut, has been named Australian of the Year for 2026. This prestigious award recognizes her outstanding contributions to the field of space exploration and her inspiration to young Australians. Bennell-Pegg, an Adelaide resident, graduated from a European Space Agency astronaut program last year, becoming the first person to qualify as an astronaut under the Australian flag. This highly competitive 12-month program included learning Russian, long hours in scuba gear to practice spacewalks, and time spent in oxygen low-pressure chambers.
Bennell-Pegg’s Career and Achievements
Bennell-Pegg has since returned to her job as director of space technology at the Australian Space Agency. Her qualification as an astronaut means she could potentially become the first person sent into space as part of an Australian mission. In addition to her work in space exploration, Bennell-Pegg spends time speaking to school children and industry leaders about space, inspiring the next generation of Australian astronauts. She believes that "curiosity and potential have no postcode and no gender, but talent is everywhere, and aspiration can be, if we foster that confidence."
Encouraging Young Australians to Pursue STEM Careers
Bennell-Pegg encourages more young Australians to take an interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). She believes that "far greater than the promise of technical breakthroughs is the unlocking of the aspiration of our young people." Bennell-Pegg has spoken with people across the country and has felt the weight of responsibility in carrying the hopes of many young Australians. She notes that many Australians are stepping away from STEM before they see what they’re capable of, and she hopes to inspire them to pursue careers in these fields.
The Australian of the Year Awards
The Australian of the Year awards recognize outstanding Australians who have made significant contributions to their communities and the country as a whole. The awards are presented in several categories, including Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year, and Local Hero. This year’s winners include Professor Henry Brodaty, who was named Senior Australian of the Year for his work in dementia treatment and prevention, and Nedd Brockmann, who was named Young Australian of the Year for his efforts to end homelessness.
Other Winners of the Australian of the Year Awards
Frank Mitchell, a First Nations construction leader, was named Local Hero of 2026 for his work in creating opportunities for Indigenous young people in the construction industry. Mitchell’s story embodies a vision that integrates cultural values with business leadership, strengthening his ties to community while reshaping the construction industry and creating lasting impact and social justice. The awards judges praised Mitchell and his partners for creating more than 70 Aboriginal upskilling positions in the industry, including 30 electrical apprenticeships, and for awarding more than $11 million to Indigenous subcontractors.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Katherine Bennell-Pegg’s achievement as Australian of the Year for 2026 is a testament to her hard work and dedication to the field of space exploration. Her inspiration to young Australians to pursue careers in STEM is crucial for the country’s future. The Australian of the Year awards recognize outstanding Australians who have made significant contributions to their communities and the country as a whole. The winners of the awards, including Professor Henry Brodaty, Nedd Brockmann, and Frank Mitchell, are all examples of individuals who have made a positive impact on their communities and the country.
