Kate Kirwin

Kate Kirwin established She Codes Australia in 2015 to help women develop coding skills, connect with industry and pursue careers in technology. What began as a grassroots initiative in Perth has grown into a national organisation offering workshops, mentoring and practical training for women entering or advancing in the sector.Through She Codes, thousands of women across Australia have accessed coding education. Its programs combine technical learning with community support and industry connections, providing alternative pathways into a field where women remain underrepresented.

With roots in regional Western Australia, Kate’s work also extends beyond metropolitan centres. She Codes has delivered programs in communities including Bunbury, Geraldton, Port Hedland, Newman and Broome, expanding access to technology education across the state.

Kate’s experience spans community building, events and innovation programs. She contributed to the growth of Perth startup hub Spacecubed and coordinated initiatives including Plus Eight and Startup Weekend, supporting connections across the entrepreneurial community.

Her contribution has been recognised through a Business News 40under40 award, The West Australian’s Rising Star Award and the 2022 Women in Digital Champion of Change award. In 2024, she was named WA Young Australian of the Year for her work supporting women in STEM. Her career brings together education, entrepreneurship and practical action to broaden participation in technology.