Australian Industry & Science Minister Confirms Fed Gov's Supports for Diversity In STEM

• The federal government will implement all 11 recommendations from the 2024 Diversity in STEM review
• Industry and Science Minister Ed Husic confirmed the government's commitment
• The move aims to improve diversity and inclusion in STEM fields

Industry and Science Minister Ed Husic has confirmed that the federal government will adopt all 11 recommendations from the 2024 Diversity in STEM review. At the Southstart startup conference in South Australia, Ed surprised the audience by revealing the government’s long-awaited response to the Pathway to Diversity in STEM Review. The review, chaired by Cicada Innovations CEO Sally-Ann Williams, was praised by Ed as a landmark piece of work, with Williams and the panel receiving accolades for their contributions.

He stated, "The government is committed to accepting all the recommendations from the report and turning them into reality." "We simply can't afford to waste time on pointless barriers that have prevented people, especially women and those from underrepresented groups, from contributing to building a better nation."

The review examining the effectiveness of government science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs for women and other underrepresented groups was commissioned in September 2022.

Williams, along with University of Western Australia professor Dr. Parwinder Kaur and Indigital founder Mikaela Jade, conducted a year-long consultation before submitting the final report to the government 12 months ago.

Recommendations for Australia’s STEM Future

The 11 recommendations emphasized the need for “a whole-of-government, long-term strategy to enhance diversity and inclusion in STEM” and encouraged the federal government to collaborate with states and territories to boost participation and performance in STEM subjects and skills at the school level.

The report called for increased support for STEM educators and students, safer work environments, and strategies to improve the attraction, retention, and promotion of underrepresented groups in STEM. It also recommended prioritizing First Nations scientists and researchers when applying for government funding for projects that impact Indigenous communities.

“The people from diverse backgrounds face additional, often overlapping barriers,” the panel noted in the report. “These barriers may stem from factors such as location, socioeconomic status, gender or sexual orientation, race or culture, or physical and cognitive abilities.

“Consequently, they are unable to pursue their aspirations and interests in STEM in the same way as their peers who do not face these obstacles.”

Australia 'Not Moving Fast Enough'

Minister’s comments came as Labor prepared for the upcoming general election and just days before International Women’s Day. “We have made some progress, but we are not advancing quickly enough,” he said. “To keep our nation competitive, we must tap into the talents of people from all backgrounds.”

“Boosting diversity in STEM allows us to build a workforce that brings various perspectives to tackle complex challenges, create productive businesses, and grow our economy.”

Williams expressed her excitement to Startup Daily about the government accepting all the recommendations. “These systemic changes have the potential to secure Australia’s long-term economic future,” she said. “It is crucial now to gain bipartisan support for these recommendations, as they set the stage for a prosperous future for everyone."

“Unlocking the full potential of an engaged and diverse STEM workforce is vital for our economic needs and national capabilities. We cannot afford to treat this as anything less.”