Australian of the Year Awards Honor Astronaut and Three Visionary Leaders
The Australian of the Year Awards celebrated remarkable contributions to society, recognizing four extraordinary individuals at the National Arboretum in Canberra.
2026 Australian of the Year Awards Highlights
Katherine Bennell-Pegg: Australian of the Year
Katherine Bennell-Pegg, an astronaut and space engineer, has been honored as the Australian of the Year. At 41, she made history as the first Australian astronaut trained through the country’s program. Completion of her basic astronaut training in 2024 at the European Astronaut Centre in Germany marked a significant milestone.
Bennell-Pegg has a profound vision for utilizing space technology to help manage natural disasters and enhance national security. She passionately advocates for Australia’s space sector, aiming to inspire the next generation of explorers and scientists.
Professor Henry Brodaty: Senior Australian of the Year
Professor Henry Brodaty, aged 78, received the title of Senior Australian of the Year for his groundbreaking work in dementia research. His father’s battle with Alzheimer’s in 1972 ignited Brodaty’s mission to improve care for dementia patients and their families. He co-founded UNSW’s Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing in 2012, leading significant advancements in understanding and preventing dementia.
Brodaty emphasizes the importance of early intervention and has called for a national campaign promoting brain health akin to Australia’s ‘slip, slop, slap’ message for skin protection.
Nedd Brockmann: Young Australian of the Year
Nedd Brockmann, 27, a former electrician, made headlines by running 3,952 km from Perth to Sydney in just 46 days. His extraordinary campaign raised over $2.6 million for homelessness, capturing national attention. He continues his philanthropic efforts with the Nedd’s Uncomfortable Challenge, encouraging others to take on personal challenges to support those experiencing homelessness.
Brockmann aims to bring awareness to the 122,000 Australians who experience homelessness nightly, stressing the urgent need for action.
Frank Mitchell: Australia’s Local Hero for 2026
Frank Mitchell, a 43-year-old Whadjuk-Yued Noongar man, was recognized for his commitment to creating job opportunities for Aboriginal Australians in the trades and construction sectors. His own life-changing electrical apprenticeship inspired him to promote similar chances for others.
Since founding his business in 2015, Mitchell has created over 70 upskilling positions and allocated more than $11 million to Aboriginal subcontractors. He advocates for a comprehensive approach that combines training, employment, and cultural inclusion for Indigenous Australians.
Final Thoughts
These four honorees exemplify visionary leadership and community commitment. As stated by Mark Fraser AO CVO, CEO of the National Australia Day Council, their efforts extend beyond personal success, aiming for transformation that benefits society at large.
The Australian of the Year Awards serve as a reminder of the incredible potential within individuals to inspire change and drive progress across various sectors.
