The Australian Government is celebrating excellence in Australian science and technology this week, with National Science Week kicking off on Saturday 12 August.

This year’s theme Innovation: Powering Future Industries has been embraced by schools with its focus on artificial intelligence and the advancement of technologies.

National Science Week is Australia’s biggest celebration of science, with communities across the country gearing up to take part in over 1,300 local events and interactive online activities.

The festival of science is also central to the Australian Government’s commitment to increase engagement with STEM, and help boost diversity in STEM education and careers, particularly for women.

To support this goal, the Australian Government has commissioned an in-depth independent review to help improve pathways to STEM education and careers for Australians.

The Australian Government is providing just under $500,000 this year in support of 32 National Science Week projects throughout the country, across our cities and our regions.

Events include:

• Fire torches and solar power, at Shepherdson College in Galiwin'ku, Northern Territory where Traditional Owners provide an insight into the innovations that allowed people to thrive for centuries.
• Blade Runner, at the National Film and Sound Archive in the Australian Capital Territory exploring the nature of memory, how humans feel emotions and what it means to be human.
• A national search to find our most-loved Aussie animal sound.

National Science Week has become one of Australia’s largest festivals since it commenced in 1997, with 1.9 million people participating in more than 1,650 events and activities last year.

National Science Week 2023 will run from 12 - 20 August.

To find a project or event near you, visit https://www.scienceweek.net.au

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

“National Science Week is one of my favourite events of the year and is a perfect opportunity to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Aussie scientists and inspire young Australians to pursue a future in STEM careers.

“Increasing pathways into STEM, particularly for diverse populations, will help ensure Australia maximises our potential in STEM, which is why we commissioned the Diversity in STEM Review.

“The Diversity in STEM Review Panel will deliver its final report to government later this year, with the goal of creating a more inclusive and accessible path to STEM education and careers for Australians.

“Inspiring young people to see themselves in a STEM career also contributes to achieving the Government’s goal of 1.2 million technology-related jobs by 2030.