Future Ready Forum: With Katherine Bennell-Pegg

Did you dream of becoming an astronaut as a child? Katherine Bennell-Pegg did — and she made it happen.

Committee for Perth and Auspire – Australia Day Council (WA) invite you to an extraordinary conversation with 2026 Australian of the Year, space engineer and astronaut Katherine Bennell‑Pegg on Tuesday, 26 May 2026.

Katherine is a genuine trailblazer in Australia’s emerging space industry. She made history as the first professional astronaut to officially represent Australia. As a space engineer, she has worked on a range of multiple space missions and technologies, including the capsule which recently took astronauts around the Moon on Artemis II.

Perth is well-positioned to capitalise on this momentum. The Perth 2050 report found that 81% of Perth residents believe new industries are essential to a more diverse economy. Yet a significant skills gap stands in the way: while approximately 75% of new Australian jobs will require STEM skills, only 36% of 14-to-17-year-olds are considering STEM careers. Tackling that gap is critical.

Western Australia already has more than 130 local and international organisations operating in the space and space-related services sector, supported by the State Government’s ambition to become a major Indo-Pacific space hub. The opportunity is real; from satellite manufacturing and space research to orbital debris removal, space tourism, and resource extraction.

Now back in Australia, Katherine is focused on inspiring the next generation and opening doors for the national space sector, bringing home her knowledge, global connections, and hard-won insights.

This exciting event is hosted by Shell, which this year marks 125 years of operation in Australia and proudly supports initiatives that inspire learning and ignite enthusiasm for future careers in STEM.

Join us to hear how Perth and Western Australia can become a launchpad for real careers in space, and what it takes to turn an audacious dream into reality.

EVENT PARTNER

With thanks to our event partner, Auspire – Australia Day Council (WA).

EVENT HOST

With thanks to our event host, Shell.