A computer scientist monitoring space debris and a hydroclimatologist investigating how floods and droughts begin are just some of the 60 outstanding women and non-binary people in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) who have been named the latest Superstars of STEM.
The Superstars of STEM program supports women and non-binary STEM sector experts to step into the public arena and share their passion, as well as enhance diversity and representation of women in Australia's science and technology sectors.
The Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic MP, announced the latest Superstars of STEM cohort today.
"Our newest superstars of STEM represent outstanding Australian expertise and I am really looking forward to seeing them share their passion and knowledge very soon," Minister Husic said.
"The need to boost diversity in our science, technology, engineering and mathematics sectors is urgent, and there are huge skills shortages that can be addressed if we put our minds and collective effort to it."
"The Superstars of STEM program is raising the profile of remarkable Australian women in STEM and encouraging diverse young Australians to aspire to STEM careers themselves."
Through a highly competitive selection process, the program selected 60 women and non binary STEM experts to be the next Superstars. The program will provide these people with advanced communications skills and opportunities to become sought-after media commentators as experts in their fields.
Superstars of STEM is run by Science & Technology Australia, which received $3.1 million from the Department of Industry, Science and Resources for the program from 2017-18 to 2024-25.
Since 2017, the program has supported and trained 150 Superstars of STEM. This latest cohort will join the program in 2023 and 2024. The program has engaged more than 60,000 students across 305 schools to date.
Minister Husic said a review of existing government programs and investments is currently under way in order to understand how best to boost greater diversity in STEM fields.
"In September, I announced a review on the delivery and impact of existing government programs and investments with a view to increasing the diversity in the STEM sector, and this work is well under way."
The full list of Australia's newest Superstars of STEM can be found here: https://scienceandtechnologyaustralia.org.au/what-we-do/superstars-of-stem/meet-the-superstars-of-stem/
