Joint media release with the Minister for Education the Hon Dan Tehan MP

Children in schools from Broome to Batehaven will today be inspired by world class scientists, as federal parliamentarians bring them to the classroom as part of CSIRO’s STEM in Schools program.

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects could lead to a career in anything from astronomy and space science to biology and even politics.

“Sparking children’s interest in STEM subjects from an early age is at the forefront of the Morrison Government’s support for science,” Minister Andrews said.

“We know that many of the jobs of the future will require STEM skills and it’s crucial that students are studying these subjects through primary and high school.

“I’m thrilled that so many of my colleagues will be going back to school to talk to children of all ages about why STEM skills are important, and to share their own stories.

“The skills I have acquired as an engineer have served me well, from the floor of power stations I worked in to the floor of the House of Representatives.”

STEM professionals will be visiting primary and secondary schools across Australia as part of CSIRO’s STEM in Schools event. STEM professionals will be invited to share stories of their careers to inspire students and to showcase STEM career diversity.

Minister for Education Dan Tehan said the Government was committed to improving the STEM skills of all young Australians to ensure they can thrive in a globalised world.

“Our Government’s ongoing investment and focus on STEM education is designed to ensure all students have access to the building blocks of learning that maths and science gives them,” Minister Tehan said.

“We have provided $1.65 million to continue and expand Curious Minds, a six-month program for Year 9 and 10 female students interested in STEM, and $1 million to digIT summer schools to inspire students to follow their passion for digital technologies and STEM studies.”

The Morrison Government has invested over $10 billion for science research and innovation this financial year, including $7.6 billion directly toward research and development and national assets like the CSIRO.

Media contacts:

Minister Andrews' office 02 6277 7070

Minister Tehan's office 02 6277 7350