Australian of the Year Breakfast 2026

Launch your day with inspiration at the Australian of the Year Breakfast. We are honoured to host a keynote conversation with Katherine Bennell-Pegg, a trailblazer who transitioned from a lifelong space enthusiast to the first Australian to qualify as an astronaut under our national flag.

After being selected from 22,500 applicants, Katherine now traverses the country, translating her experiences at the European Astronaut Centre into a powerful mission: empowering the next generation to reach for careers in Australia's booming STEM industry.

The morning continues with insights from our 2026 SA Australian of the Year recipients, four individuals whose work is creating meaningful impact in our communities:

Malcolm 'Mac' Benoy – Meteorological researcher contributing to global climate change research.
James Currie – Award-winning sound designer whose five-decade career has helped shape South Australia’s film industry while mentoring the next generation of creative talent.
Chloe Wyatt-Jasper – Youth mental health advocate who secured $5 million in funding for improved youth mental health services.
Ayesha Fariha Safdar – Founder of the Adelaide Pakistani Women's Association, supporting and empowering migrant and refugee women.

Join us to hear these powerful stories of ambition, service and the fresh perspectives that are shaping our future.

We acknowledge the invaluable assistance from the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council and support from the Government of South Australia. Our supporting partners include Adelaide Cemeteries, Accenture, Find Your Place, Maras Group , St Peters College and Kytons Bakery.

Contact the host of Australian of the Year Breakfast 2026

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