On Friday 15 May 2026, more than 600 students came together for the 2026 Inspiring Australians Student Summit – a powerful morning of curiosity, leadership and possibility.

Hosted in partnership with Woodville High School, the summit welcomed students from nine secondary schools to hear from an extraordinary lineup of Australians who are shaping the future in their own unique ways.

Students were inspired by history-making astronaut and 2026 Australian of the Year Katherine Bennell-Pegg, youth advocate and 2025 SA Young Australian of the Year Amber Brock-Fabel and renowned science communicator and 2025 NSW Senior Australian of the Year Dr Karl Kruszelnicki AM, who each shared personal stories of resilience, curiosity, leadership and the importance of embracing opportunity.

The event also encouraged young people to connect with one another, reflect on their own aspirations and consider the role they can play in creating positive change within their communities and beyond.

A highlight of the summit was hearing directly from student leaders whose authenticity, passion and willingness to share their experiences reflected the strength of leadership emerging across South Australia’s school communities.

The Australia Day Council of South Australia is proud to deliver programs like the Inspiring Australians Student Summit which empower young people to think boldly about their future, use their voice with confidence and recognise the impact they can have on the world around them.

We extend our sincere thanks to our valued partners Department for Education, Flinders University and Credit Union SA, as well as Woodville High School for hosting the event, and all the schools, educators and students who participated in making the day such a meaningful experience.