SENATOR THE HON TIM AYRES

MINISTER FOR INDUSTRY AND INNOVATION

MINISTER FOR SCIENCE

SENATOR FOR NSW

ALICIA PAYNE MP

MEMBER FOR CANBERRA

JOINT MEDIA RELEASE 

$1.6M IN GRANTS TO BOOST STEM PARTICIPATION

4 July 2025

More students will be immersed in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) activities with support from the Australian Government.

134 projects, including National Indigenous Autumn Astronomy School and the 2024 International Junior Science Olympiad Australian Team in Canberra, are sharing $1.6 million in funding through the Sponsorship Grants for Student Science Engagement and International Competitions, a part of the Inspiring Australia – Science Engagement Program.

Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres said the program helps students participate in STEM engagement events, activities and competitions hosted in Australia or overseas.

The grants aim to increase the number of students participating in domestic and international STEM competitions and events and boost the engagement and participation for groups under-represented in STEM.

Grants will support students to take part in programs such as Space Camp USA, Connecting Minds Project in Japan and the National Indigenous Astronomy Autumn School.

More information about the Inspiring Australia – Science Engagement Program is on the Department of Industry, Science and Resources website.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres:

“The demand for STEM skills in the workforce has never been higher. We need to ensure Australia can meet that demand and our goal of 1.2 million technology-related jobs by 2030.

“By supporting STEM skills development and enabling access to exciting STEM programs we can encourage students towards pursuing a STEM career.

“A diverse and strong STEM workforce will help us to take advantage of opportunities in emerging industries like renewable energy, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, robotics and quantum.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Canberra Alicia Payne MP:

“I’m thrilled that the National Indigenous Autumn Astronomy School and the 2024 International Junior Science Olympiad Australian Team here in Canberra will receive support to keep helping local students to pursue their passion in science, technology, engineering and maths.

“Sparking an interest in STEM from an early age is critical in ensuring young Australians aspire to study and work in these fields.”