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Science Meets Parliament 2026

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Acknowledgement of CountryWe acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.

About Science Meets Parliament

Science Meets Parliament is Australia’s premier initiative for fostering meaningful connections between the STEM sector and policymakers. SMP2026 will be held in Parliament House on 25-26 March 2026.

Science Meets Parliament features a comprehensive training program designed to strengthen relationships between federal Parliamentarians and professionals in science and technology. It plays a vital role in integrating STEM expertise into national service.

Participants gain valuable insights into effective engagement strategies with policymakers, while federal Parliamentarians have the opportunity to connect with leading experts in science and technology.

Our national gathering brings together STEM leaders for expert-led professional development, a welcome reception, a Parliamentary forum, a national gala dinner, a televised address at the National Press Club, and intimate meetings with Parliamentarians in small group settings.

A highlight of the Parliamentary calendar, Science Meets Parliament 2026 will provide exceptional opportunities to enhance the visibility and understanding of STEM within Parliament and Australian Government Departments.

“

Science Meets Parliament holds a very special place in my heart because it was the first official speaking role that I had as the Minister for Industry and Science. And it was a unique opportunity to be able to meet with you all.”

The Hon Ed Husic MP,
Former Minister for Industry and Science

Who should attend Science Meets Parliament?

Science Meets Parliament is open to all Australian STEM professionals in academia, industry and government. This includes PhD students through to leaders in the STEM sector.

STEM professionals with an interest in broadening their networks and learning how to engage effectively with policymakers are encouraged to attend the event.

Eligibility to meet with a Parliamentarian

Only delegates from STA member organisations can be considered for a meeting with a Parliamentarian. See a full list of STA member organisations here.

Register

One-day registration

Day 1 of Science Meets Parliament includes the high-energy professional development the event is well-known for. This registration option is for people who want to understand how to interact with government, learn how successful advocacy is achieved, speak about their science confidently, and network with Australia's STEM leadership.

Registration includes: 

  • Access to online runway sessions which will be delivered in the week prior to SMP; 
  • Attendance at day one of Science Meets Parliament 2026 (25 March 2026); 
  • Opportunity to purchase a ticket to attend the National Press Club address at the National Press Club of Australia;
  • One ticket to attend the SMP 2026 gala dinner
Full price for one-day registration:
STA Member $1,300 | Non-STA Member $1,600
ECR $1,000
REGISTER – STA MEMBER
REGISTER – NON-STA MEMBER

Two-day registration

Delegates will attend SMP 2026 in its entirety. This includes the high-energy professional development the event is well-known for on day one and two and the celebration gala dinner. 

Registration includes: 

  • Access to online runway sessions which will be delivered in the week prior to SMP; 
  • Attendance at day one and day two of Science Meets Parliament 2026 (25-26 March 2026); 
  • Opportunity to purchase a ticket to attend the National Press Club address at the National Press Club of Australia;
  • One ticket to attend the SMP2026 gala dinner 
  • Option to meet with a Parliamentarian during day two of the program (STA Members only). 
Full price for two-day registration:
STA Member $1,800 | Non-STA Member $2,200
ECR $1,600
REGISTER – STA MEMBER
REGISTER – NON-STA MEMBER

STA member group registration

Group registration is available for STA members looking to register multiple delegates at once and receive one invoice.

GROUP REGISTRATION PORTAL

Care bursaries

Thanks to the generous support of SMP Care Support Partner Functional Materials and Microsystems, we're offering a limited number of bursaries to give delegates with care responsibilities (not limited to the care of young children) more freedom to participate in the conference program and functions.

If you require additional care to participate in SMP, please get in touch. Grants of up to $400 are available.

To be eligible you must:

  • Be attending SMP2026 as a registered delegate.
  • Have childcare needs for children aged 10 or under, OR, are a primary carer,
  • Require additional care outside of your family's usual needs.

Only one grant is available per family and funding is limited. Please email events@sta.org.au outlining the age of your dependant, describe what support you need and the estimated cost.

Gala dinner

The SMP gala dinner will be held in the Great Hall of Australian Parliament House. Join Australia’s STEM leaders, Parliamentarians, and delegates at this fabulous black-tie event. Dinner tickets are included in all registrations.

Ticket price: $250

One gala dinner ticket is included in all delegate registrations.

Wednesday 25 March 2026
6:30–10:30 pm
Australian Parliament House

Full tables can be purchased; each table seats 10.

 

Purchase tickets

SMP2026 Program

The program is in the process of being finalised and is subject to change. 

 

From 8:00 AMArrival and registration
8:30 AMWelcome to Country - Ngunnawal Elder

Welcome to SMP 2026 - STA President Jas Chambers and STA CEO Ryan Winn

Foundation Partner address - Department of Industry Science & Resources

Official opening of SMP2026

9:10 AMScience Meets the Economy - Bench to Boardroom (Supported by CSIRO)

For the good of a prosperous nation, science leaders must inform, drive and facilitate conversations from the bench, boardroom to the amazing house of politics, but they are rarely present. This conversation will examine the emerging opportunity for science to play a bigger role in corporate governance. Together, we’ll explore how to grow board demand for scientific insight and unpack and expand on the insights pathways for scientists to have impact in, on and through Boards, and through to the wider economy.

9:50 AMMorning tea break 
10:15 AMCivics101: Understanding Australia's democratic system

What are the structures of Australia’s Parliamentary democracy, how do Parliamentary processes work? This session will cover how legislation originates and is passed, the role of inquiries, committee hearings, the annual budget cycle, and what happens during Sitting Weeks.

10:45 AMA day in the life of a policy advisor

Senior policy advisors play a hugely pivotal role in Australia’s political system, acting as eyes and ears for Ministers, Senators and MPs, mastering complex policy fields, and engaging with stakeholders on policy ideas and legislation. Some of the very best in the business share insight on how they work, the pressures on their time, and the most effective ways to get helpful information in front of them and their boss.   

12:00 PMNational Press Club address - Supported by Standards Australia
2:10 PMFronting an inquiry 

Ever wondered what it’s really like to give evidence before a parliamentary inquiry? This session brings you behind the scenes with scientists who’ve done just that. Hear first-hand how they prepared for the experience, handled tough questions and communicated complex evidence clearly under pressure. Drawing on real-world examples, our speakers will share what worked, what they learned, and how their contributions shaped the final outcomes. Whether you’re curious about the process or preparing for your own appearance, this session will demystify inquiries and help you make your science count in the policy arena.

2:50 PMAfternoon tea (grab and go)
3:00 PMTruth telling and cultural capability

Explore why truth telling is essential to building meaningful relationships with First Nations peoples. Participants will examine how acknowledging historical and ongoing injustices is central to cultural capability and why it matters for research, policy, and collaboration. Through discussion and reflection, delegates will gain a deeper understanding of how truth telling lays the groundwork for respectful engagement, stronger partnerships, and a more inclusive approach to science and decision-making.

4:00 PMDay program concludes
6:30 PMSMP GALA DINNER

Welcome Reception in APH Marble Foyer

10:30 PMGala Dinner Ends

 

7:30 AMArrival and coffee
8:00 AMParliamentary Forum (Supported by The University of Sydney)

How do Australia’s Parliamentarians and political parties see the role of science, expertise and evidence? In a wide-ranging discussion, leading MPs and Senators will talk about what science means to them and their party, why Australia needs science, their policy offerings to strengthen science and the science workforce, and advice for scientists on engaging with politicians and the Parliament to inform policy and legislation.

9.00 AMScience in the media

This session brings together journalists and researchers to explore the challenges and opportunities of communicating science to the public. Participants will hear firsthand how media shapes the conversation around research, learn practical strategies for engaging with journalists, and discuss ways to ensure accurate, compelling, and responsible reporting. Whether you’re sharing your work with policymakers, the public, or the press, this session will help you navigate the evolving landscape of science communication.

9:30 AMMorning tea break
10:00 AMHow Government Departments operate

To drive research advances that solve Australia’s most complex challenges, Government Departments need to engage with each other to power innovation from fundamental research through to commercialisation. How are Government Departments coordinating policy to ensure advances don’t fall between cracks?   
How is public policy really made? What’s the role of the public service in identifying emerging opportunities, how do Departments gather input from trusted stakeholders, and how do they support Ministers? How can you make it easier for public servants to engage with evidence?

10:50 AMPutting SMP skills into action

You’ve built connections, sharpened your communication skills, and gained new insights at SMP - now what? In this interactive session, hear from some of STA's best and brightest about their first forays into policy and how they have gone on to influence national conversations at the highest levels. Past Presidents will share how to turn your experience into meaningful impact. Learn practical ways to stay engaged with policymakers, contribute your expertise to national conversations, and continue working with Science & Technology Australia beyond the event. Discover how to keep the momentum going and make your science heard where it matters most.

11:35 PMApplying STEM skills to a new career

STEM skills open doors far beyond the lab or lecture theatre. In this session, hear from professionals who’ve successfully pivoted into new careers - from policy and entrepreneurship to communication and leadership. They’ll share how they translated their technical expertise into new contexts, built on their strengths, and navigated the challenges of change. Whether you’re considering a career shift or exploring how your skills can make an impact in unexpected places, this session will inspire and equip you to take the next step with confidence.

12:10 PM Lunch - Mob catchup
1:10 PMCollaborating with community

Meaningful collaboration begins with respect, listening, and shared purpose. In this session, two scientists share their experiences working in partnership with Indigenous communities - from co-designing research to building trust and ensuring mutual benefit. Hear how these collaborations have enriched both the science and the communities involved, and learn practical approaches for engaging ethically, respectfully, and effectively. This session will highlight the power of community-led research and the importance of embedding cultural understanding in scientific practice.

2:00 PMQuestion Time and Tours of Parliament House
3:00 PMAfternoon tea break
4:20 PMClosing session of SMP2026

SMP2026 Scholarships

Scholarships to attend Science Meets Parliament 2026 are available across seven categories:

  • Disability
  • Early Career Researcher*
  • First Nations
  • LGBTQIA+
  • Neurodivergent
  • Regional and remote
  • Technology

*The Early Career Research scholarship is only for those who are early career researchers that are also eligible in at least one of the other scholarship categories.

The scholarships are generously supported by our Scholarship Partners and provide recipients with full registration to Science Meets Parliament 2026 including a ticket to the National Press Club address, a meeting with a Parliamentarian, travel and accommodation.

We are still seeking scholarship sponsors. Partner with us now.

Apply for scholarship

Partners

Foundation

Titanium

Gala Dinner

Australian Government ANSTO logo

ANSTO

Leadership Session

CSIRO logo

CSIRO

Parliamentary Forum

usyd

University of Sydney

National Press Club Address

Platinum

Coffee Cart

Podcast

Care Support

Partnership Opportunities

Don't miss this opportunity to have your brand and staff associated with the biggest SMP yet. See the partnership opportunities section below and partner with us for this momentous occasion.

Read the SMP2025 Impact Report

“

"SMP was an incredible event where, over two days, I honed my science communication and advocacy skills, met with Parliamentarians, and engaged in powerful discussions about how evidence-based policy can shape Australia’s future."
SMP Delegate feedback, 2025

“

"SMP made Parliamentarians human for me. I left with a real appreciation and gratitude for what they do and was inspired with a further sense of duty to Australia."
SMP Delegate feedback, 2025

Benefits of Partnership

By partnering with Science Meets Parliament, your organisation will secure strong visibility as a sector leader in a diverse audience of agenda-setters, key decision-makers, and sector influencers.

Powerful Brand Exposure:

Your organisation's logo and branding will be prominently displayed on event collateral, including marketing materials, website, social media platforms, and signage, maximising your brand's visibility and reach.

Thought Leadership Positioning:

As a partner, your organisation will have the opportunity to send delegates to Science Meets Parliament, contribute to discussions, share expertise, showcase innovative projects, position yourselves as a leader in the field and enhance your reputation.

Networking Opportunities:

Science Meets Parliament brings together a diverse group of participants, including scientists, policymakers, industry representatives, and Parliamentarians. Partnership comes with networking opportunities, allowing you to connect with key stakeholders, explore collaborations, and expand your professional networks.

Access to Insights and Policy Developments:

By partnering with Science Meets Parliament, your organisation and delegates will gain access to world class professional development. This event shares invaluable insights on how to shape the Australian policy landscape by giving STEM experts a deeper understanding of how to engage effectively with policymakers.

To read about the success of SMP 2025, download the Impact Report.

Partnership Levels

We offer partnership packages for a wide array of organisational needs and budgets. Detailed information on each of the packages is below. Under each drop-down menu, you’ll find comprehensive information on each partnership level, benefits, and investment levels. We’re also open to discussing customised packages to suit your specific goals and preferences.

Speaking opportunity

  • Opportunity to deliver an address during Science Meets Parliament.
  • Opportunity to introduce VIP speaker.

Registrations

Eight conference registrations, which includes:

  • Attendance at SMP2026 (excludes National Press Club ticket)
  • Opportunity to meet with a Member of Parliament (meetings only available for STEM professionals), and;
  • Ticket to the Gala Dinner

Functions

Opportunity to invite seven additional guests to the Gala Dinner.

Opportunity to invite five guests to attend the National Press Club address and lunch.

Acknowledgement & logo placement

  • Opportunity to display two banners in main conference venue.
  • Opportunity to provide delegates with corporate branded hand outs.
  • Acknowledgement as Sapphire Partner pre-event & during event.
  • Opportunity to highlight your company in bespoke promotion.
  • STA will amplify your partnership announcement on social media.
  • Logo prominently displayed on the conference website.
  • Verbal acknowledgment of your organisation’s support throughout the conference.
  • Advertisement in the conference program.
  • Logo and website link in conference app.

Speaking opportunity

Opportunity to deliver an address during Science Meets Parliament.

Registrations

Six conference registrations, which includes:

  • Attendance at SMP2026 (excludes National Press Club ticket)
  • Opportunity to meet with a Member of Parliament (meetings only available for STEM professionals), and;
  • Ticket to the Gala Dinner

Functions

Opportunity to invite five additional guests to the Gala Dinner.

Opportunity to invite five guests to attend the National Press Club address and lunch.

Acknowledgement & logo placement

  • Opportunity to provide delegates with corporate branded hand outs.
  • Acknowledgement as Diamond Partner pre-event & during event.
  • Opportunity to highlight your company in bespoke promotion.
  • STA will amplify your partnership announcement on social media.
  • Logo prominently displayed on the conference website.
  • Verbal acknowledgment of your organisation’s support throughout the conference.
  • Advertisement in the conference program.
  • Logo and website link in conference app.

Speaking opportunity

Opportunity to deliver an address during Science Meets Parliament.

Registrations

Four conference registrations, which includes:

  • Attendance at SMP2026 (excludes National Press Club ticket)
  • Opportunity to meet with a Member of Parliament (meetings only available for STEM professionals), and;
  • Ticket to the Gala Dinner

Functions

Opportunity to invite two additional guests to the Gala Dinner.

Opportunity to invite two guests to attend the National Press Club address and lunch.

Acknowledgement & logo placement

  • Acknowledgement as Titanium Partner pre-event & during event.
  • STA will amplify your partnership announcement on social media.
  • Logo displayed on the conference website.
  • Verbal acknowledgment of your organisation’s support throughout the conference.
  • Advertisement in the conference program.
  • Logo and website link in conference app.

Speaking opportunity

Opportunity to deliver a five-minute welcome address at the Gala Dinner.

Registrations

Two conference registrations, which includes:

  • Attendance at SMP2026 (excludes National Press Club ticket)
  • Opportunity to meet with a Member of Parliament (meetings only available for STEM professionals), and;
  • Ticket to the Gala Dinner

Functions

Opportunity to invite ten guests to the Gala Dinner.

Acknowledgement & logo placement

  • Acknowledgement as Gala Dinner Partner pre-event & during event.
  • Logo displayed on the conference website.
  • Prominent logo branding during the Gala Dinner.
  • STA will amplify your partnership announcement on social media.
  • Verbal acknowledgment of your organisation’s support throughout the conference.
  • Advertisement in the conference program.
  • Logo and website link in conference app.

Speaking opportunity

Opportunity to deliver an address during Science Meets Parliament.

Registrations

Three conference registrations, which includes:

  • Attendance at SMP2026 (excludes National Press Club ticket)
  • Opportunity to meet with a Member of Parliament (meetings only available for STEM professionals), and;
  • Ticket to the Gala Dinner

Functions

Opportunity to invite two guests to the Gala Dinner.

Acknowledgement & logo placement

  • Acknowledgement as Platinum Partner pre-event & during event.
  • Logo displayed on the conference website.
  • STA will amplify your partnership announcement on social media.
  • Verbal acknowledgment of your organisation’s support throughout the conference.
  • Advertisement in the conference program.
  • Logo and website link in conference app.

Exclusive opportunity. The nationally televised National Press Club luncheon address will feature a prominent person in the STEM sector. Traditionally attended by conference delegates, Press Gallery journalists, senior members of the business and science sectors, and senior policy makers.

Corporate Signage:

Opportunity to place two free-standing banners at the National Press Club.

Functions

  • Opportunity to invite ten guests to the National Press Club address.
  • Opportunity to meet with the National Press Club speaker and board prior to the address and lunch.

Acknowledgement & logo placement

  • Acknowledgement as National Press Club Partner pre-event & during event.
  • Logo displayed on the conference website.
  • STA will amplify your partnership announcement on social media.
  • Verbal acknowledgment of your organisation’s support throughout the conference.
  • Logo and website link in conference app.

Opportunity to be named partner of:

  • Parliamentary Forum (SOLD)
  • Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Panel
  • Science Leadership Dialogue (SOLD)

Speaking opportunity

Opportunity to provide an address prior to the session.

Registrations

Two conference registrations, which includes:

  • Attendance at SMP2026 (excludes National Press Club ticket)
  • Opportunity to meet with a Member of Parliament (meetings only available for STEM professionals), and;
  • Ticket to the Gala Dinner

Acknowledgement & logo placement

  • Acknowledgement as Named Session Partner during event period.
  • STA will amplify your partnership announcement on social media.
  • Logo displayed on the conference website.
  • Verbal acknowledgment of your organisation’s support throughout the conference.
  • Advertisement in the conference program.
  • Logo and website link in conference app.

Registrations

Three conference registrations, which includes:

  • Attendance at SMP2026 (excludes National Press Club ticket)
  • Opportunity to meet with a Member of Parliament (meetings only available for STEM professionals), and;
  • Ticket to the Gala Dinner

Acknowledgement & logo placement

  • Logo displayed on the conference website.
  • STA will amplify your partnership announcement on social media.
  • Verbal acknowledgment of your organisation’s support throughout the conference.
  • Advertisement in the conference program.
  • Logo and website link in conference app.

Give SMP2026 delegates an opportunity to have a professional headshot taken to update their social media, LinkedIn etc. Delegates can elect to get a photograph taken by a professional photographer.

Registration

One conference registration, which includes:

  • Attendance at SMP2026 (excludes National Press Club ticket)
  • Opportunity to meet with a Member of Parliament (meetings only available for STEM professionals), and;
  • Ticket to the Gala Dinner

Acknowledgement & logo placement

  • Opportunity to display one banner beside the photo booth.
  • Opportunity to hand-out marketing material to delegates at the photo booth.
  • Verbal Acknowledgement as Photobooth Partner during the event.
  • Logo displayed on conference website.
  • Logo and website link in conference app.

Coffee carts provide an excellent opportunity to promote your brand to delegates at Parliament House during SMP.

Registration

One conference registration, which includes:

  • Attendance at SMP2026 (excludes National Press Club ticket)
  • Opportunity to meet with a Member of Parliament (meetings only available for STEM professionals), and;
  • Ticket to the Gala Dinner

Acknowledgement & logo placement

  • Opportunity to display logo and banner at the coffee cart in the venue.
  • Opportunity to bring one member of staff to speak with delegates at the coffee cart.
  • Logo displayed on conference website.
  • Logo and website link in conference app.

Registration

One conference registration, which includes:

  • Attendance at SMP2026 (excludes National Press Club ticket)
  • Opportunity to meet with a Member of Parliament (meetings only available for STEM professionals), and;
  • Ticket to the Gala Dinner

Acknowledgement & logo placement

  • Verbal acknowledgement as Silver Partner during the event.
  • Logo displayed on the conference website.
  • Logo and website link in conference app.

Help us make SMP2026 as sustainable as possible with recyclable name tags and lanyards. 

Add your logo to the SMP2026 nametags worn by all delegates attending the event in Parliament House. 

Partner benefits

Company logo printed on SMP2026 delegate nametags

Acknowledgement & logo placement

Logo displayed on the conference website.

 

Your support of the SMP Scholarships enables a STEM professional to access and attend SMP2026

Scholarship categories:

  • Disability
  • First Nations
  • LGBTIQIA+
  • Neurodivergent
  • Regional & Remote
  • Technology
  • To propose an additional scholarship category, please contact us.

Partner benefits

  • Opportunity to assist STA Staff with assessing scholarship applications.
  • Opportunity for in-person or virtual meet & greet with recipients of SMP2026 scholarships.
  • Logo recognition in media release announcement of scholarship winners.

Scholarship recipients

  • Recipients receive full registration to Science Meets Parliament 2026.
  • Travel, accommodation, transfers & meals are provided for the recipients to attend SMP2026 including tickets to the National Press Club lunch and the Gala Dinner.

Acknowledgement & logo placement

  • Acknowledgement as Scholarship Partner on all promotion of the scholarships.
  • STA will amplify your partnership announcement on social media.
  • Logo displayed on the conference website.
  • Logo and website link in conference app.

This partnership opportunity enables delegates with care responsibilities to attend the event.

Bursaries (and the sponsor) will be promoted to all delegates to allow attendees with care responsibilities (not limited to the care of children) greater freedom to attend all aspects of the program.

Acknowledgement & logo placement

  • Acknowledgement as Carer's Support Partner on all promotion of the bursaries.
  • Logo displayed on the conference website.
  • Logo and website link in conference app.

Next steps

To discuss these opportunities further, please contact STA’s Director of Strategic Outreach and Membership, Lucy Guest. Get in touch here.

We’d be delighted to share more information, arrange a meeting, or tailor a partnership package to meet your organisation’s objectives.

We look forward to working with you as a valued partner of Science Meets Parliament.

Together, we can foster these powerful professional networks that are key to ensuring the deep expertise of our sector is engaged in policy making.

Frequently Asked Questions

Registration

What does my registration include?
All registration types include access to online runway sessions to prepare participants for SMP2026.

There are two registration types in 2026: one-day or two-day registration. The one-day registration is for Day 1 of SMP only. The two-day registration is for both days. If you wish to participate in the Meetings between delegates and Parliamentarians, you must register for the two-day registration.

One-day registration for SMP 2026 includes bespoke professional development, and one ticket to the gala dinner. You can also purchase a ticket to attend the National Press Club address during the day on the first day.

Two-day registration for SMP 2026 includes bespoke professional development and one ticket to the gala dinner on day one. You can also purchase a ticket to attend the National Press Club address during the day on the first day. On the second day of SMP, join us at Australian Parliament House for a full-day program and the option to meet with a Parliamentarian.

Delegates from an STA member organisation are eligible to meet with a Parliamentarian.

Flights and accommodation are not included in any registrations. For tips on accommodation and transport, please see the Event Information section below.

What is the difference between an STA member and non-STA member registration?
STA member organisations may access unlimited registrations at a discounted rate. Additionally, SMP 2026 delegates, attending from STA member organisations, have the option to be considered for a meeting with a Parliamentarian. See a full list of STA member organisations here.

Where can I find the conference’s refund policy?
The entire event Terms and Conditions can be found here. Section 5 details the refund policy.

What happens if I can no longer attend? 

If you can no longer attend SMP2026, the National Press Club address and/or the National Gala Dinner, you may transfer your registration to someone else up to 14 days before the event.

You must notify Science & Technology Australia by emailing us at events@sta.org.au and providing the name and contact details of the delegate receiving the transferrable.

For STA member delegates, we encourage you to transfer your registration to someone within your member organisation.

If you are unable to transfer your registration, you will be subject to our refund policy found in the event Terms & Conditions.

Who is eligible for ECR registration?
Any STEM Professional within nine years post-PhD, excluding career breaks, is eligible.

What financing options are available?
Thanks to generous sponsors, Science & Technology Australia offers a range of scholarships. Please keep an eye on the event page for further information coming soon. Please check the eligibility requirements. If you are experiencing financial hardship, please contact us at events@sta.org.au

How can I pay for my SMP2026 registration?
All delegates, regardless of their registration type (group or individual), will be offered two options for payment: credit card or transfer via EFT as per invoice details. Payment is due within 30 days of invoice issue.

I am part of an STA member organisation. Who do I get in contact with to organise my registration?
We strongly encourage STA member delegates to contact their STA member organisation before registering for SMP2026.

If you are unable to contact your STA member organisation, please email members@sta.org.au.

Why isn’t the National Press Club address included in my registration?
The National Press Club is a small venue with a limited seating capacity; as such, we cannot include a ticket with any registration type. You may purchase National Press Club tickets separately during the registration process. A waitlist will be implemented.

Event Information

What time do I arrive at the venues for SMP2026?

We ask delegates to make time for transport, getting through security and checking in with the event staff.

What is the dress code for SMP2026 and the National Gala Dinner?
The dress code for SMP2026 is business attire, including meetings with Parliamentarians.

The dress code for the gala dinner is black tie or formal. We encourage everyone to wear whatever makes you feel comfortable.

What are the transport options in Canberra?
You can take a taxi, hire a car, or use the Uber app to get to Australian Parliament House from your accommodation.

Where can I stay in Canberra?
We recommend booking accommodation ASAP as the event coincides with a Parliamentary sitting week.

Hotels in the vicinity of Australian Parliament House: Hotel Realm, Little National Hotel Canberra, Brassey Hotel, Hotel Kurrajong, Rydges Canberra and Burbury Hotel.

STA member delegates can access discount codes for TFE Hotels through the Member Benefit Scheme. Please contact members@sta.org.au for more information.

Will there be childcare available?
No, there will not be care offered on site.

However, thanks to the generous support of SMP Care Support Partner, we're offering a limited number of bursaries to give delegates with care responsibilities (not limited to the care of young children) more freedom to participate in the conference program and functions.

If you require additional care to participate in SMP, please get in touch. Grants of up to $400 are available.

To be eligible you must:

  • Be attending SMP2026 as a registered delegate.
  • Have childcare needs for children aged 10 or under, OR, are a primary carer,
  • Require additional care outside of your family's usual needs.

Only one grant is available per family and funding is limited. Please email events@sta.org.au outlining the age of your dependant, describe what support you need and the estimated cost.

Meeting with a Parliamentarian

Can I have a meeting with a Parliamentarian?
Delegates who are representing an STA member organisation are eligible to be considered for a meeting.

I am a member of an STA member organisation. Am I guaranteed a meeting?
No. Due to the limited availability of MPs and Senators, we cannot guarantee enough Parliamentarians for the number of event delegates.

We will try to match at least one person per STA member organisation with a Parliamentarian for a meeting.

We encourage delegates to make their biographies clear and interesting to maximize the success of the meeting-matching process.

Can I choose which Parliamentarian I meet with?
No. The Science & Technology Australia team will match SMP delegates with MPs and Senators based on the nominated topics they can speak to and participant availability.

When will I find out who I am meeting with and what time I am meeting with them?

Once the meeting matching process is complete, information regarding your meeting will be available in your delegate app. Make sure to check your app for updates.

Can I choose what time my meeting is?
No. Meetings will occur on day two of SMP 2026, a Parliamentary sitting day. MPs/Senators have limited time to attend meetings, so their availability determines the meeting times.

Can I have my meeting online?

No. All meetings will take place in person on Thursday. The only exception is if an MP/Senator has to cancel and reschedule the meeting online at a later date.

What happens if my meeting gets cancelled by the Parliamentarian?
If your meeting is cancelled by your MP/Senator, we will try our best to reschedule it on the same day or online at a later date. However, this is not guaranteed and is subject to the MP/Senator's availability.

What happens if I can no longer attend my meeting?
You must inform the STA team immediately by emailing us at events@sta.org.au

Can I bring a presentation for my meeting?
No. We ask that delegates refrain from bringing a presentation to their meeting with an MP or Senator.

However, if a small and interesting item showcases your research, you may be permitted to bring that item.

Please contact events@sta.org.au to confirm if this item would be appropriate for the meeting and whether it will be permitted through Australian Parliament House security.

Will my meeting be one-on-one with a Member of Parliament?
No. A small group of event delegates, 2–4 people, will meet with a Parliamentarian. You will get to meet and coordinate with the other delegates before the meeting.

Contact

For enquiries about SMP 2026, please contact:

Lucy Guest
Director of Events and Membership
T: 02 6113 0781
or visit our Contact Us page

This project received grant funding through Inspiring Australia – An Australian Government Initiative.