Key Takeaways
- Katherine Bennell-Pegg is the 2026 Australian of the Year and the first Australian to qualify as an astronaut under the country’s space program.
- Professor Henry Brodaty is the Senior Australian of the Year for his pioneering work in dementia treatment and research.
- Nedd Brockmann is the Young Australian of the Year for his ultra-marathon running and fundraising efforts to help the homeless.
- Frank Mitchell is the Australian Local Hero for his work in creating opportunities for Aboriginal people in the electrical and construction industry.
Introduction to the Australian of the Year Awards
The Australian of the Year awards, presented by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, recognize outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to their fields and communities. This year’s winners are truly inspiring, and their stories are a testament to the power of determination and hard work. Katherine Bennell-Pegg, the 2026 Australian of the Year, is a trailblazer in the field of space engineering and research. At just 41 years old, she has already achieved what many can only dream of – becoming an astronaut. Bennell-Pegg was the first international candidate to graduate from the European Astronaut Centre in Germany and was selected from over 22,500 applicants.
The Achievements of Katherine Bennell-Pegg
Bennell-Pegg’s achievement is not only a personal milestone but also a significant moment for Australia’s space program. She is an active promoter of the program and regularly makes presentations to school children to inspire the next generation. As the director of space technology at the Australian Space Agency, Bennell-Pegg is forging new frontiers for Australian space engineering, research, and exploration. Her story is a reminder that with determination and hard work, anyone can achieve their dreams, regardless of how impossible they may seem. As National Australia Day Council CEO Mark Fraser said, "She leads by example, openly sharing her story to inspire the next generation and reminding us all of the power of a dream, and where determination can lead."
The Work of Professor Henry Brodaty
Professor Henry Brodaty, the Senior Australian of the Year, has dedicated his life to improving our understanding of dementia and developing new treatments. His work has been hailed as transformative, and his research has improved the diagnosis, care, and prevention of dementia. Brodaty’s journey began when his father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 52. At the time, dementia was poorly understood, and Brodaty was determined to make a difference. He co-founded the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing and led significant research that has improved our understanding of the risk and prevention of dementia. His Maintain Your Brain large trial showed that cost-effective and targeted intervention could delay the onset of dementia and even prevent it.
The Inspiring Story of Nedd Brockmann
Nedd Brockmann, the Young Australian of the Year, is an ultra-marathon runner who has raised millions of dollars to help the homeless. His journey began when he witnessed the harsh reality of homelessness on the streets of Sydney. Brockmann was determined to make a difference and decided to run from Cottesloe beach in Perth to Bondi beach in Sydney, a journey of 3,952 kilometers. He completed the journey in 46 days, setting a record and raising over $2.6 million from 37,000 contributions. Brockmann’s efforts have continued to grow, and he has established Nedd’s Uncomfortable Challenge, which has raised over $8 million to help the homeless.
The Achievements of Frank Mitchell
Frank Mitchell, the Australian Local Hero, is a Whadjuk-Yued Noongar man who has made a significant impact in the electrical and construction industry. Mitchell’s story is one of resilience and determination. As a young single father, he was offered an electrical apprenticeship, which he saw as a profound opportunity. He went on to become a business owner and pledged to create the same opportunities for Aboriginal people. Mitchell’s companies have created over 70 Aboriginal upskilling positions in the electrical and construction industry, including 30 electrical apprenticeships, and have awarded over $11 million to Aboriginal subcontractors. His story embodies a vision that integrates cultural values with business leadership, strengthening his ties to the community while reshaping the construction industry and creating lasting impact and social justice.
Conclusion
The 2026 Australian of the Year awards celebrate the achievements of four outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to their fields and communities. Katherine Bennell-Pegg, Professor Henry Brodaty, Nedd Brockmann, and Frank Mitchell are all inspirations, and their stories remind us of the power of determination, hard work, and resilience. As we reflect on their achievements, we are reminded that anyone can make a difference, regardless of their background or circumstances. These individuals have shown us that with passion, dedication, and a commitment to making a positive impact, we can achieve great things and create a better world for ourselves and future generations.
