Science & Technology Australia marked its 40th anniversary last week with a celebratory event on Ngunnawal Country in Canberra, bringing together members, alumni, and leaders from across the STEM sector.
The event highlighted four decades of advocacy, innovation, and programs that have shaped the Australian science and technology landscape.
STA Deputy CEO Sandra Gardam opened the evening with a personal reflection, acknowledging the traditional custodians of Ngunnawal Country and inviting attendees to connect with their own stories.
Founded in 1985 by leaders from 55 member organisations representing 20,000 STEM professionals, STA has grown into a powerhouse representing over 140 member organisations and 235,000 STEM professionals across Australia and New Zealand.
"It takes the dedication of our staff, the commitment of our member organisations, and the passion of individuals across our community who believe in science as a force for good," Dr Gardam said.
"As we raise a toast to STA at 40, let's commit to the next 40 years with the same boldness, the same unity, and the same belief that science and technology can help build a better, fairer, more prosperous Australia."
STA thanked all members, past and present, for their contribution to the organisation's success and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting science and technology in Australia for decades to come.
Looking ahead, STA will continue the 40th anniversary celebrations with events in Melbourne on Friday 24 October, Perth on Friday 31 October, and Sydney on Friday 7 November.
A key focus of the evening was the Science Policy Fellows Alumni (SPFA), which supports scientists to become skilled policy practitioners in the Australian Public Service.
Anika Prabhu, a member of the leadership group from SPFA, spoke about the program, sharing insights into how the fellowship supports early and mid-career researchers to gain experience in policy roles and build connections across government and the science sector.
