Monash University welcomed 2026 Australian of the Year Katherine Bennell-Pegg, the first professional astronaut to represent Australia, to its Clayton campus today, where she inspired students to imagine their place in Australia's growing space future.
Katherine Bennell-Pegg signs the rocket nozzle, leaving her mark on the Monash High Powered Rocketry Team's next launch.
During her visit, Ms Bennell-Pegg met with students and toured the Monash Makerspace, where student teams are designing and building technologies in rocketry, robotics and high-altitude systems.
"I've wanted to be an astronaut since I was a child. Being able to share that journey and show what's possible is incredibly important," Ms Bennell-Pegg said.
"There are so many exciting opportunities emerging in Australia's space sector, and it's inspiring to see students already building the skills to be part of it right here at Monash University.
"It's also terrific to see the impressive space capability and technology being developed at Monash, which is helping to drive our industry forward at a time of rapid growth in the global space sector."
Monash University Chancellor Megan Clark AC said Katherine Bennell-Pegg's visit to Monash was about opening doors for the next generation.
"Astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg inspires young students to reach for their dreams and lift Australia's ambitions," Dr Clark said.
"Moments like this connect students directly to the reality of space careers. We're seeing incredible talent coming through, and programs like the National Indigenous Space Academy at Monash are helping ensure opportunities are accessible to more young Australians.
"By bringing world-class research and new learning opportunities into direct partnership with industry and international space agencies, Monash University is helping shift Australia from participating in the global space sector to helping shape its future."
Larry James, Professor of Practice, Space Innovation at Monash University, said Australia's space ambitions rely on building capability from the ground up.
"Space capabilities and technology permeate almost every aspect of our lives today. Monash is leading across multiple areas in this increasingly important domain, and creating knowledge and impact for the betterment of our local and global communities," Lt Gen James said.
The visit also spotlighted the National Indigenous Space Academy (NISA), a pioneering Monash-led program creating pathways for First Nations students to gain hands-on experience with leading international space organisations and pursue careers in space science, engineering and technology.
Chris Lawrence, Professor of Practice in Space Innovation and Security Capabilities, said Monash was helping expand access to Australia's space sector while building global capability.
"Monash is pioneering pathways like the National Indigenous Space Academy that open the space industry to a broader and more diverse cohort of students across Australia," Professor Lawrence said.
"Through expanding international partnerships, including placements at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory and new opportunities with the UK's Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, the National Indigenous Space Academy continues to grow its national reach and impact, equipping students to help Australia lead in satellite communications, space surveillance, Earth observation and climate monitoring."
As a 2025 NISA crew member, Keira Moran, a proud Yuin woman, undertook a 10-week placement at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California, working alongside leading scientists and engineers on space research.
"Working at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory proved to me that there is a place for First Nations people in the global space industry," Ms Moran said.
"Bringing different perspectives and knowledge systems into how we explore and understand space makes way for greater scientific advancement."
Since launching in 2023, NISA has provided space education opportunities for Indigenous Australian STEM students, with funding from the Australian Space Agency, and additional support from CSIRO, the Andy Thomas Foundation and Boeing.
The event program included a Welcome to Country led by Boon Wurrung Senior Elder Professor N'arwee't Carolyn Briggs AM and a panel discussion featuring Ms Bennell-Pegg, Dr Clark and Ms Moran, with students eager to ask questions about careers, pathways and the future of space.
