Hundreds of researchers and innovators from across Australia will meet face-to-face with federal parliamentarians in Canberra today to discuss how science and technology can build a strong and resilient future for Australia.
More than 70 MPs and Senators will host meetings in their offices today with scientists and technologists, as part of the 20th annual Science meets Parliament event, coordinated by Science & Technology Australia (STA).
STA President Dr Jeremy Brownlie said the event was an important opportunity to highlight the vital role that world-class research and its application have, and must continue to play, in building a thriving and resilient Australia.
“Science meets Parliament brings Australia’s scientific community right into the heart of federal political leadership.
“The event gives scientists of all kinds and politicians from across the political spectrum the chance to sit down face-to-face and discuss how science is addressing some of the most pressing issues facing Australia, and how it can inform critical decisions for the nation’s future,” Dr Brownlie said.
Science meets Parliament also features a nationally televised National Press Club Address by Australia’s Women in STEM Ambassador Professor Lisa Harvey-Smith.
Dr Brownlie said it was a promising sign for Australia’s future to see politicians from all parties and both Houses eager to meet with Australia’s scientists.
“It’s encouraging to see politicians from across the political spectrum meeting with scientists to learn more about science and technology in Australia,” he said.
“For Australia to continue to grow economically, socially and politically, government policy must be informed by evidence and science.
“It’s really exciting to think what can be achieved when scientists and government work productively together,” Dr Brownlie said.
STA Chief Executive Kylie Walker said Science meets Parliament is an opportunity for scientists and politicians to build understanding and work together.
“Across Australia, world class scientists, inventors and technologists are opening up new worlds of possibility. Science meets Parliament is an opportunity for us to bring these discoveries to Parliament,” she said.
“Science has the potential to improve all aspects of society and our lives – economic stability, education, agriculture, welfare, health, environment.
“It’s vital that our decision makers understand how to access this knowledge,” Ms Walker concluded.
STA is the nation’s peak group for 80,000-plus scientists and those working in technology. STA’s mission is to bring together scientists, governments, industry and the broader community to advance the role, reputation and impact of science and technology in Australia.
