Today the Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, Karen Andrews, chaired a roundtable session on the Decadal Plan for Women in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) on the Gold Coast. 

The event, organised by the Australian Academy of Science, is part of the national consultation sessions it is holding to develop the plan.

“As an engineer, the STEM subjects have been central to my achievements in life and I want to see girls and women have better opportunities to study these subjects and pursue the careers which flow from them,” said the Minister.

“The Coalition is committed to improving gender equity in STEM and these sessions form part of our plan to reduce barriers.”

The Plan will allow the science sector to take ownership of a comprehensive strategy to encourage more women to pursue studies and careers in STEM fields.”

The Decadal Plan is part of a $4.5 million Coalition Government initiative in the 2018-19 Budget, encouraging science and industry sectors to take ownership of a comprehensive strategy to increase female participation in STEM.

The Academy of Science is coordinating this strategy and feedback from sessions will be used in further development of the Decadal Plan.

Media contact: Minister Andrews' office 02 6277 7070