Main content area

Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)

Increasing science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) capability is at the core of the government’s science agenda as set out in the National Science Statement.

The global economy is changing which means new industries are emerging and new skills are required for workers at all levels.

Applying STEM knowledge and skills leads to:

new products and technologies
more efficient services and systems
higher quality health care
enhanced natural resource management
new ways to respond to environmental change
progress on tackling national and global challenges
better decision-making in governments and industry

The importance of STEM

Action on STEM is critical to:

Australia’s ability to compete in international markets
creating new opportunities for industries
supporting high living standards

Ensuring all Australians can be engaged with STEM is a key priority.

Women in STEM strategy

We are committed to improving the participation of women in STEM.

Our plan for Advancing Women in STEM outlines the government’s vision and role in supporting increased gender equity across the STEM sector.

The 2020 Action Plan and STEM Equity Monitor are the next steps in implementing this strategic framework.

STEM initiatives

We are supporting:

community-wide engagement activities, grants and prizes through Inspiring Australia
initiatives that foster girls’ and women’s interest in STEM and entrepreneurship, including the:
- Women in STEM and Entrepreneurship Grants Program
- Education Services Australia to develop the Girls in STEM Toolkit

We drive the implementation of National Innovation and Science Agenda (NISA) initiatives.
The Women’s Advisory Roundtable provides advice on how to advance the critical role of women across business, industry, innovation and science.