Self-described space nerd and Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles has thrown his personal support behind Adelaide astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg, but refused to commit to the $100 million to connect Australia to the global space framework.

Speaking in the context of the global attention surrounding NASA’s Artemis II mission, Malinauskas highlighted the powerful role human spaceflight plays in capturing public imagination, and the opportunity for Australia to harness that momentum to ABC’s News 24 show this morning.

Dick Smith has pledged $1m to help put Australian astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg on an International Space Station mission, saying the endeavour would encourage thousands of schoolchildren to pursue careers in engineering, science and technology.

We’ve launched the #FlyKatherine website to support the next phase of the campaign.

Designed as a central resource, the site equips parliamentarians and their advisors, journalists and supporters with the information they need, fast. It brings together key statistics, evidence, and campaign context, alongside clear actions people can take to get involved.

Last week, Larissa held several important meetings in Canberra alongside attending Science Meets Parliament 2026, hosted by Science & Technology Australia.

In addition to the formal program, Riss met with representatives across Australian Parliament House, including the offices of Minister Ayres and Assistant Minister Charlton. These discussions focused on the national opportunity presented by an ESA collaboration and the growing base of support from industry, academia and the community.