Australian of the Year Visits Monash, Inspires Next Generation of Space Leaders
Katherine Bennell-Pegg, the first Australian to qualify as an astronaut under Australia’s own space program, visited Monash University’s Clayton campus following her recognition as the 2026 Australian of the Year.
A Historic Visit
Bennell-Pegg toured the Monash Makerspace, engaged with students, and participated in an event highlighting the university’s National Indigenous Space Academy (NISA). The visit underscored a pivotal moment for Australia’s space ambitions.
Background: A Pioneer's Path
Bennell-Pegg is the first professional astronaut to represent Australia. She completed Basic Astronaut Training in 2024 alongside a class of six, trained by the European Astronaut Centre in Germany. She was the first international candidate to undertake this training, selected from over 22,500 applicants.
Before her qualification, Bennell-Pegg worked as a space engineer, contributing to multiple space missions and technologies. She is based at Lot Fourteen at the Australian Space Agency in South Australia, where her work involves shaping Australia’s role in the global space sector.
Key Statements from the Event
During the visit, Bennell-Pegg stated she has wanted to be an astronaut since childhood and emphasized the importance of sharing her journey. She noted emerging opportunities in Australia's space sector and said she found it inspiring to see students building relevant skills at Monash.
"The space capability and technology developed at Monash are impressive and are helping drive industry growth," she said.
Monash Chancellor Megan Clark stated that Bennell-Pegg inspires students and that the visit connects them to space career realities. Clark said programs like NISA help broaden access and added that Monash aims to shift Australia from participating in the global space sector to helping shape its future.
Larry James, professor of practice in space innovation at Monash, stated that space capabilities permeate many aspects of life and that Monash is leading in multiple areas.
Mark Fraser AO CVO, CEO of the National Australia Day Council, stated that Bennell-Pegg is "forging new frontiers for Australians in space engineering, research and exploration" and that her work impacts future space endeavors and everyday life through research and development.
Spotlight: National Indigenous Space Academy (NISA)
NISA is a Monash-led initiative supporting First Nations students in space-related careers. Chris Lawrence stated the program strengthens global capability while broadening participation.
Keira Moran, a 2025 NISA participant, completed a 10-week placement at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. She stated the experience proved there is a place for First Nations people in the global space industry.
Since 2023, NISA has supported Indigenous STEM students with backing from the Australian Space Agency, CSIRO, the Andy Thomas Foundation, and Boeing.
Event Details
The visit included a Welcome to Country by Carolyn Briggs and a student panel discussion, providing a platform for dialogue between emerging talent and a national icon.