Kate is a survivor of childhood cancer which she inherited from her father's exposure to dioxin (Agent Orange) in the Vietnam War.

Kate is an award-winning playwright and screenwriter. She has written over 35 plays that have been performed internationally.

Was the partner of late actor Mark Priestley.

Kate was made an Honorary Doctor of Letters for her contribution to the arts by Curtin University in 2017.

Kate is a graduate of Curtin University in Perth with a Bachelor of Arts degree. She obtained a double major in theatre and script writing.

Kate was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia in 2021 for her contribution to the Arts.