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The Australian Government’s strategy for women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) aims to increase gender equity in STEM education and careers. We envision a society that provides equal opportunity for people of all genders to learn, work and engage in STEM.

To achieve this vision, the government lead and support action in 3 areas:

  • enabling STEM potential through education
  • supporting women in STEM careers
  • making women in STEM visible

Read the strategy

Gender disparity in STEM
Australia’s talent pool is limited by the underrepresentation of half of Australia’s population in STEM education and careers.
Our vision
An Australian society that provides equal opportunity for people of all genders to learn, work and engage in STEM.
Government leading the way
We will play a strong leadership role, partnering with the STEM sector to support, guide and advocate for action on STEM gender equity.
Enabling STEM potential through education
A strong, supportive education that encourages the interests of girls in STEM will build a solid base for future skills and careers.
Supporting women in STEM careers
Improving gender equity in STEM workplaces benefits employees and employers, and enables us to reach our full potential.
Making women in STEM visible
Diverse, strong STEM role models and careers will help to address the bias and stereotyping that currently exists in STEM.
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Key drivers and deliverables

Decorative image from the strategy cover featuring women from diverse backgrounds working in STEM
2020 Action Plan
See how we are laying the foundations for a national approach to achieve sustained improvements in STEM gender equity.
Decorative image from the strategy cover featuring women and girls working and studying STEM
STEM Equity Monitor
Compare data in this national report on girls’ and women’s participation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
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Downloads

2020 Action Plan [PDF 1.02 MB]
Advancing Women in STEM [PDF 3.25 MB]
Australian Government initiatives to support women and girls in STEM [PDF 266.55 KB]
Australian Government initiatives to support women and girls in STEM [DOCX 104.79 KB]

Read the case studies

Photo of Dr Cathy Foley
Women leading the way
Dr Cathy Foley leads the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) as Chief Scientist.
Photo of Claire and Imogen participating in Expanding Curious Minds program
Expanding curious minds
The Curious Minds program has been enabling high potential year 9 and 10 girls to explore all aspects of STEM since 2015.
Photo of Leanne Smith
Positive change for girls in STEM
Education Changemakers ran workshops for female educators to increase engagement and retention of girls in STEM.
Photo of Tim Reed
The diversity advantage
The Male Champions of Change initiative engages male leaders to take an active role in STEM equity and accelerate change.
Photo at Edith Cowan University SAGE awards ceremony
Breaking down barriers
Edith Cowan University was awarded for progress in addressing gender inequity and supporting greater diversity and inclusion.
Photo of Dr Tien Huynh
Superstar scientists
The Superstars of STEM program is helping to raise the profile of the nation’s female scientists to inspire the next generation.
Photo of Professor Lisa Harvey-Smith
A champion for STEM equity
As Australia’s first Women in STEM Ambassador, Professor Lisa Harvey-Smith, is encouraging girls and women to study and work in STEM.
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Read more

Contact us

Email STEM@industry.gov.au

ISBN

ISBN: 978-1-925050-09-7 (online)

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