Science Meets Parliament 2024
Oliver Jones
MCR Ambassador
In March 2024, scientists from across the country travelled to Canberra for Science Meets Parliament 2024. This event brings together scientists, policymakers, and politicians; the aim? To help both understand each other a bit more.
I first attended back in 2014, so it was a good chance to reflect on what has changed since then.
There are plenty of positives. In 2024, 60% of the delegates were women, 3.5 % were First Nations STEM professionals, more than 90 Parliamentarians took part. There were huge numbers of productive discussions (I met Libby Coker MP, Federal Member for Corangamite).
Some things, however, have sadly not changed. Science funding is lower than a decade ago, there is still no secure path for early career researchers, and inclusion in STEM still has a way to go.
Overall, it was a fantastic couple of days! Every speaker could have been a keynote at any conference. There were ambassadors, chief scientists, ministers, journalists, a Nobel prize winner, and more. The advice and professional development packed into two days was amazing. There was also a lot of excitement during the event. The ARC amendment bill passed the senate, Science Minister Ed Husic MP announced his engagement, and Science & Technology Australia President Sharath Sriram gave a National Press Club address that will inspire scientists for years to come.
In short, 10/10, would highly recommend; and a big thank you to SETAC-AU for helping me to attend.
Shima Ziajahromi
ECR Ambassador
For me, the Science Meets Parliament event was a very special experience that provided an opportunity not only for networking with other researchers but also to learn about policy and legislation in Australia, science communication, and more. For example, during the science communication session, I had the opportunity to chat with journalists about my research, which led to media connections and interviews.
It also gave me a unique opportunity to have a one-on-one meeting with Australian Chief Scientist Dr. Cathy Foley to discuss the importance of microplastic research in Australia. Additionally, I met with Hon Meryl Swanson MP, Chair of the Standing Committee on Agriculture, to discuss the lack of policy and regulation for microplastics in Australia and its critical importance in protecting our farmlands.
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