Katrina Wruck named 2025 Young Australian of the Year

Katrina Wruck, an industrial scientist and advocate for Indigenous representation, has been awarded as the 2025 Young Australian of the Year on Saturday.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese presented the award during a ceremony at the National Arboretum in Canberra, recognising Wruck's transformative work in green chemistry and her dedication to community engagement.


Wruck has focused her career on addressing global environmental challenges. Her innovative research includes converting mining by-products into non-toxic, usable materials such as laundry detergent and zeolite LTA, a substance capable of removing water contaminants.

According to Mirage News, these breakthroughs will be commercialised through her profit-for-purpose business, Nguki Kula Green Labs, which aims to revolutionize the consumer goods sector while promoting sustainability.

As per National Indigenous Times, Wruck emphasised the importance of representation in her acceptance speech, particularly for Indigenous and neurodivergent individuals in STEM fields. "Representation matters," she stated.

"When kids, especially Indigenous kids, see someone like me in this position, it tells them that they belong, that their dreams are valid, and their voices are powerful", Wruck added.

Wruck’s work is deeply rooted in her connection to her Country and her commitment to integrating First Nations knowledge into scientific innovation. As per 9News, she regularly participates in community engagement programs and often hears from students that she is the first Indigenous scientist they have encountered. This visibility, she believes, is crucial to inspiring the next generation.

The Queensland University of Technology lecturer also highlighted the significance of her Torres Strait Islander and immigrant heritage, describing these elements as integral to her identity.

She also acknowledged the complexities surrounding January 26, referred to by different names across Australia, including Invasion Day and Survival Day. "Today, we still exist under the structures of the British empire," she said. "Tomorrow, January 26, is a reminder of the violent dispossession—a legacy that continues to this day".

Reflecting on her journey, she described herself as a "golden trifecta that by all accounts, wasn’t supposed to succeed".

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli praised Wruck, stating, "She has long advocated for First Nations knowledge and shared her passion for science with others. As the 2025 Young Australian of the Year, I am confident she will use this platform to create more opportunities for young Australians and advocate for greener practices".