Indigenous scientist named Young Australian of the Year

Through working with the abundant rock zeolite, Dr Wruck found a way to turn it into zeolite LTA, one of the main ingredients in laundry detergent and helps to remove contaminants from water that cause hardness.

As part of her business Nguki Kula Green Labs, Dr Wruck has aimed to support Indigenous communities by boosting access to free laundry facilities while also addressing illnesses such as rheumatic heart disease.

Her research is also examining ways to break down toxic forever chemicals to make them benign, providing a way to reduce contamination in the environment.

The Indigenous scientist has been recognised for her work, being named as the Young Australian of the Year.

Dr Wruck said through her work in science, she wanted see Indigenous kids dream big.

"I stand here as a neurodivergent black woman, a golden trifecta that by all accounts, wasn't supposed to succeed. Early in my journey, I worked tirelessly to prove others wrong," she said upon accepting the award.

"But along the way, I realised I wasn't doing it for them, I was doing it for myself, for my family and for the community they represent.

"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."

She said the award was not just for herself but the Indigenous communities she represented and worked with.

"It is for the young people daring to dream big and the communities fighting for justice and the elders who continue to keep the fire burning," she said.

National Australia Day Council chair John Foreman said Dr Wruck's pioneering research was paving towards a sustainable future.

"Katrina is forging new futures for our planet and for industry," he said.

"Her achievements and community work show other young people that they, too, have opportunities in the world of science and technology."