From STEM bootcamps, to 3D printing medicine and a live quiz battle between Australia’s top scientists, National Science Week 2024 is promising to be seriously good fun.

From 10 August, in-person and virtual events will sweep the country igniting a passion in kids and adults celebrating all things science.

The Albanese Government has funded more than 30 public events to the tune of $500,000 via the National Science Week Grants. This complements more than 1500 community events held across Australia.

This year’s schools theme Species Survival – more than just sustainability, puts a spotlight on the importance of science and innovation in ensuring the survival and thriving of different species in an ever-changing world.

Through the fun and magic of puppetry, Matt the Feral Cat – A play about what shouldn’t be for dinner (WA) will highlight the threat of cats to native wildlife, the science behind their control and how all species can be protected. 

Monash University’s Indigi-STEM bootcamp (VIC) will bring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students together to problem solve and gain a greater appreciation for STEM. 

Students will work in teams to experience hands on learning and use STEM to solve real life problems with the support of university specialists.

Other National Science Week events include:

• Two teams of Australia’s top scientists, with guest team captains, will do battle in the National Science Quiz 2024 (ACT and online around Australia). Nate Byrne will host as a live and online audience join in with game play on Kahoot. 
• From Pixels to Pills – why we should 3D-print medicines (QLD) will explore the designing and 3D printing of objects, including medicinal tablets, and explain why the process is valuable for pharmaceuticals. 
• The Beaker Street Festival (TAS) will feature talks and hands-on workshops by world-leading scientists, interactive science/art installations, and live performances. Highlights include appearances by Australian astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg, and the new Hobartica feature event bringing Antarctica to Hobart.
• An open day of hands-on plant and animal science learning activities will take place in Biosecurity in the Bush at the Katherine Research Station (NT). Students will be challenged to be a biosecurity officer for the day, exploring exotic threats lurking at our front door and the crucial efforts to keep them in check. 
• At Sydney Zoo, The Science of Survival Festival (NSW) will showcase how science is pivotal in helping species survive. Activities and workshops include wildlife friendly gardening, virtual excursions for schools, protecting turtles with First Nations Knowledges and knowledge systems, and a Discovery Trail to view endangered species.
• Hear insights from over 170 years of study on the Naracoorte Caves in a series of webinars in World Heritage – Beyond the Boundaries (SA). Palaeontologists, scientists and researchers will cover a range of topics and conduct Q&As live from within the caves.

More information on all the National Science Week events and a full list of grant recipients is available at https://www.scienceweek.net.au/national-grant-round-recipients-for-2024/

Quotes attributable the Minister for Industry and Science, the Hon Ed Husic:

“National Science Week is where inspiration meets aspiration, demonstrating the fun and real-world applications of science.

“It’s fantastic to see many of our great Aussie scientists participate in local events to help ignite a lifelong curiosity.

“I encourage everyone to check out the National Science Week events happening in your local community and get involved. 

“We’re aiming to make STEM more diverse and inclusive – with events spanning the country involving First Nations scientists.”