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Scientist and industrial chemist Doctor Katrina Wruck has been named the 2025 Young Australian of the Year.
Her career in chemistry has focused on giving back to remote communities by transforming mining by-products into usable non-toxic materials like laundry detergent.
Wruck is a proud Mabuigilaig and Goemulgal woman, who has advocated for First Nations knowledge and participated in community engagement programs.
READ MORE: Former AFL player Neale Daniher named 2025 Australian of the year
The Queensland University of Technology lecturer is frequently told by students she speaks to, that she's the first Indigenous scientist they've met.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese presented the award to the 30-year-old at the Australian of the Year event in Canberra.
In her speech, Wruck said she hoped to set an example through her career as a neurodivergent Indigenous woman in science.
READ MORE: Human rights lawyers headline 50th Australia Day honours
"Representation matters," Wruck said.
"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."
Former AFL footballer and MND charity co-founder Neale Daniher AO was named Australian of the Year for 2025, while Brother Thomas Oliver Pickett AM took the title of 2025 Senior Australian of the Year.
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