Science meets Parliament (SmP) is the major event hosted by Science and Technology Australia (STA). This event was first hosted in 1999 and takes place in Canberra in the first quarter of each year. SmP brings together about 200 of Australia’s top scientists and puts them face to face with the decision makers in Canberra. Participants include parliamentarians, staffers, lobbyists and journalists plus scientists from all disciplines.
This setting provides scientists with the opportunity to interact with politicians, policy makers and the media and gives you an opportunity to look at your science from a different perspective. A range of topics are available including science in the media, the influence of science on policy making, the impact of science on Australia's economy and environment and its understanding in the broader community.
The 2023 SmP event will be held across two parts including a three-day online training, professional development and speaker event from 7 - 9 March and an in-person event at Parliament house in Canberra on 22 March 2023. Delegates will get to meeting with Members of Parliament, attend the National Press Club address and the Welcome Reception and National Gala Dinner. Expect to get tips on how to successfully engage politicians and expand your professional development. Scientists get a feel for government policymaking by discussing policy material with lobbyists, parliamentary staffers, politicians and journalists, and become equipped with the knowledge, skills and networks that continue to serve them well into the future.
As a member society of STA, SETAC-AU can nominate (up to) two delegates to attend. Typically, one delegate will be a senior member and one will be early career, within 5 years of graduating the last degree. The nominated delegates will be awarded with complementary event registration for SmP.
One of the main goals of the event is for the scientists to keep our parliamentarians informed on what we view as the big issues in our field. We encourage nominations from dynamic and motivated members who would like to fly the banner (no, not literally!) on behalf of our society and our disciplines, ecotoxicology and environmental chemistry. Nominees may be from government, industry or academia, and with all levels of experience are welcome to apply. Previously successful applicants will not be considered.
Nominees should have been a SETAC member for a minimum of 2 years and currently live/work/study in Australia. Please submit a one page CV and a cover letter briefly stating:
- How attending the event will benefit you.
- Why you want to attend SmP as a SETAC-AU representative.
- Any previous contributions that you may have made to SETAC-AU.
All applications must be electronic, and sent to australasia@setac.org by COB 20 January 2023. A minimum of two members of the SETAC-AU Council will form a selection panel after all entries are submitted and conflicts of interest will be managed appropriately.