Her career in chemistry has focused on giving back to remote communities by transforming mining by-products into usable non-toxic materials like laundry detergent.

Wruck is a proud Mabuigilaig and Goemulgal woman, who has advocated for First Nations knowledge and participated in community engagement programs. 

The Queensland University of Technology lecturer is frequently told by students she speaks to, that she’s the first Indigenous scientist they’ve met. 

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese presented the award to the 30-year-old at the Australian of the Year event in Canberra.

In her speech, Wruck said she hoped to set an example through her career as a neurodivergent Indigenous woman in science.

“Representation matters,” Wruck said.

“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.”

Former AFL footballer and MND charity co-founder Neale Daniher AO was named Australian of the Year for 2025, while Brother Thomas Oliver Pickett AM took the title of 2025 Senior Australian of the Year.