The science of solving crime with STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) will go under the microscope at the annual AFP x Questacon day on Saturday, August 16, 2025.
In the event's third year - as it promotes both STEM and National Science Week from 9-17 August - the two agencies will invite young people to try their hand at being an AFP forensic expert.
Participants will interact with a range of stations around the Questacon site, including fingerprint matching, decoding activities, secret writing and artificial intelligence demonstrations.
They will collect stickers for a Junior Forensic Investigator report card as they complete each activity and receive a limited-edition AFP Junior Scientist lab coat upon entry.
Attendees will also see an operational police car up close, interact with dogs and handlers from the AFP's canine unit, and meet Constable Kenny Koala.
AFP Principal Forensic Scientist Doctor Kylie Jones said the forensics team was eager to showcase the AFP's world-leading work and inspire young people.
"The annual AFP x Questacon event is a highlight for the forensics team and we enjoy it just as much as the kids," Dr Jones said.
"The AFP is recognised as a world leader in forensic science and technical intelligence, so it's a privilege to both give young minds a behind-the-scenes look at what we do and hopefully also inspire them for their future careers.
"Forensics covers a wide range of areas, from robotics and video analysis to biology and chemistry, so if someone is STEM-minded, there are career opportunities in the AFP."
Questacon is Australia's National Science and Technology Centre. Senior Manager of Centre Experience Angie Good said the event brought STEM to life in a way that was hands-on and fun.
"Questacon is excited to bring the AFP onsite and get visitors thinking about how science and technology shape the world around us, and how they can be part of it," Ms Good said.
Attendance at the AFP x Questacon day can be booked online
