Science & Technology Australia's Science Meets Parliament offers scientists and researchers a space to promote their research and STEM initiatives to policymakers.
They take part in professional development sessions, parliamentary forums and small group meetings with MPs and senators to build their capability and engage with government.
This year's event marked a milestone, with more than 40% of parliamentarians involved over 2 days.
Event highlights
Our Secretary Meghan Quinn PSM, joined other senior APS leaders in a panel discussion on how government departments operate. The discussion gave insights into making policy decisions. It also highlighted how building trust, relationships and having clear communication pathways, can help industry engage with government.
'Atip for engaging with government is choosing the right time and the right mode of communication… So how do you have a guide to a messy world? Form relationships with people in the system, they can help with judgement.' - Secretary Meghan Quinn PSM
Assistant Minister for Science, Technology and the Digital Economy Hon Dr Andrew Charlton MP opened the event, alongside the Shadow Minister for Science Aaron Violi MP. They spoke about the importance of building trust with the public and the recently released report on Australia's research and development system, Ambitious Australia.
Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science, Senator the Hon Tim Ayres, gave a televised National Press Club address. He outlined how science and innovation underpin the government's Future Made in Australia agenda. The Minister highlighted the central role of research in increasing productivity, building new industries and creating high value jobs. He also spoke about the importance of close collaboration between government, industry and the research community.
'The task now is alignment - getting the most out of our investment by joining up our science and research capability with industry, to drive real impact.' - Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science, Senator the Hon Tim Ayres
Our department is a foundation partner and supports the event through the Inspiring Australia - Science Engagement Program.
