Australian Space Diversity Alliance announces new leaders

Five experienced space and aerospace experts join National Committee

The Australian Space Diversity Alliance (ASDA) today announced five new members joining its National Committee, strengthening efforts to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion within Australia’s growing space industry.

Newly appointed Chair Katie Mouser said, “We are thrilled to welcome these outstanding leaders to the Committee. Together, we can create lasting change that will propel the space industry forward.”

ASDA received a record number of nominations for these roles. “We were overwhelmed in the best possible way by the number of thoughtful, passionate and inspiring submissions,” Ms Mouser said. “It’s a powerful reminder that we’re part of a growing community committed to a more inclusive and equitable space sector.”

The National Committee now includes thirteen professionals across space, aerospace, R&D, and human resources. Two current leaders are stepping down: Co-Founder Mei He and Mitch Porteous, who will move to the Advisory Board in October.

They join current Committee Members – Anntonette Dailey (Treasurer), Dwayne Fernandes, Eleanor Ingram, Jacqui Tyack, Katie Mouser, Keira Chrystal, Larry D. James, Lt Gen, USAF (Ret), Dr Sheila Gough Kenyon.

Pictured left to right: Emma Swift, Georgi Coddington, Jessica Bayndrian, Mike Brennan, Sasha Robinson.

New National Committee Members

Emma Swift – Airline pilot at Virgin Australia, South Australian Chair at Women in Aviation International and advocate for First Nations participation, diversity, and human factors in aviation and space. Currently studying a Master of Aviation Management, specialising in Human Factors and Safety.

Georgi Coddington – ASTRA Program Director and youth space outreach leader, passionate about equity and access for underrepresented groups, currently studying a Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics)/Mathematics and Diploma of Project Management.

Jessica Bayndrian (ASDA Secretary) – Nova Systems project support specialist and RAAF reservist, currently studying a Master of Space Operations.

Mike Brennan – Project Manager at University of Queensland, Board Director at Women in Aviation International, with expertise in defence, space and national security, and inclusive workforce development.

Sasha Robinson – Founding Partner at Flightdeck Group, an aviation and aerospace leader with 30+ years’ experience and award-winning programs advancing career access, including as a mentor, speaker, and author.

Together, the National Committee will drive programs that educate, inspire, and expand the participation of underrepresented groups in Australia’s space sector.

ASDA is also exploring new ways for the community to get involved, through working groups, sub-committees, and collaborative projects aligned to specific areas of interest.

Looking ahead, ASDA is advocating strongly for improved accessibility and inclusion at the 76th International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Sydney from 29 September to 3 October 2025, insuring Australia’s leadership on the global stage reflects a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

About the Australian Space Diversity Alliance (ASDA)

ASDA was born out of the momentum generated by the inaugural Diversity at the Frontier: Gender Equality in Space conference, held in Canberra in April 2023. This event brought together over 100 participants to address issues of inclusion, diversity, equality, and access (IDEA) in Australia's space sector.

Formed in March 2024 by eight co-founders, ASDA is committed to expanding participation for diverse and marginalised groups in space, ensuring a dynamic and innovative future for Australia's space industry. As a bipartisan, not-for-profit organisation, ASDA remains independent to maintain its neutrality and dedication to its mission.

Join ASDA and be part of a more inclusive future for the Australian space sector.

For more information on sponsorship, membership, and how to get involved, visit spacediversity.com.au.

Read biographies for all National Committee members: spacediversity.com.au/about-us