Dr Katrina Wruck named 2025 Young Australian of the Year

A proud Mabuigilaig and Goemulgal woman, Dr Wruck is devoted to developing new materials to address contaminants in water, with an emphasis on sustainable, green solutions. Her business, Nguki Kula Green Labs, aims to transform the consumer goods sector and inspire others to step into STEM. 

Dr Wruck’s innovative method of converting mining by-products to zeolite LTA – which can remove contaminants from water that cause hardness – will be commercialised while her postdoctoral research examines how to break down dangerous ‘forever chemicals’ into benign ones.

An Indigenous Australians knowledge champion, Dr Wruck also participates in community engagement programs within schools, where she says she regularly encounters students who tell her she is the first Indigenous scientist they’ve met.

“This recognition is an incredible honour, not just for me, but for the communities, supporters and mentors who have shaped my journey” Dr Wruck said.

“As a proud Indigenous scientist, I draw deeply on my heritage and the values of caring for Country in everything I do. I was inspired by the resilience and deep knowledge of my community, and those experiences drive my passion for solving some of the world’s toughest environmental challenges.

“Through my outreach in schools, I see the power of representation and how it can inspire the next generation to dream big. That’s why this work matters – to show young people, especially Indigenous kids, they belong in STEM and can lead the way in shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future.

“I hope my story inspires others to see that our differences are our strengths. Whether you’re from a small remote community or you’re neurodivergent like me, your unique perspective has the power to create change.”

QUT Executive Dean Faculty of Science Troy Farrell said Ms Wruck was an incredibly worthy winner of this award and has been chosen from an outstanding field of nominees.

"Her work, as an early career researcher, on green conversion technologies is important and impactful," Professor Farrell said.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Australians) Angela Barney-Leitch congratulated Dr Wruck who has been widely recognised for her research and school outreach work.

“Dr Wruck is an inspirational and passionate advocate who has worked tirelessly in supporting girls and Indigenous Australians to push through boundaries and consider a future in STEM,” Ms Barney-Leitch said.

“There was a time when the image of a scientist was a man in a white jacket. Dr Wruck is showing a generation of young girls another image to focus on.”

The national awards were announced last night (January 25) at a ceremony at Government House in Canberra.

For the full list of the 2025 Australian of the Year recipients and more information, visit www.australianoftheyear.org.au

Top image: Dr Katrina Wruck with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Picture credit: NADC/Salty Dingo

Media contact:

Amanda Weaver

QUT Media

media@qut.edu.au

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