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Science Meets Parliament 2025

Science Meets Parliament 2025 An initiative of Science & Technology Australia with Ed Husic

About Science Meets Parliament

Science Meets Parliament is Australia’s premier initiative for fostering meaningful connections between the STEM sector and policymakers. In 2025, we will celebrate 25 years of SMP—join us to mark this phenomenal milestone.

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 2025 will provide exceptional opportunities to enhance the visibility and understanding of STEM within Parliament and Australian Government Departments.

If the election is called early in 2025 and the Government is in caretaker mode on 12 and 13 February, SMP2025 will be postponed. The event must take place during a Parliamentary Sitting Week. If required, revised SMP 2025 dates will be announced post-election. All registrations will be automatically transferred to the new date. If you're unable to attend, a refund will be offered. We apologise for the ambiguity – unfortunately, this is out of our control.

“

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,
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.

Venues

Wednesday 12 February 2025
Day 1 at Hotel Realm, 18 National Circuit, Barton, ACT
Gala Dinner at National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula, Canberra

Thursday 13 February 2025
Day 2 at Australian Parliament House, Parliament Drive, Canberra

Functions

National Press Club Address 

Tickets to attend the National Press Club address and luncheon are limited, and therefore an optional additional purchase. Delegates who do not attend will have lunch catered at Hotel Realm and watch the live broadcast of the Address. 

25th Anniversary of SMP Gala dinner | Celebrate science with a Night at the Museum

The 25th anniversary SMP gala dinner will be celebrated halls of Australia’s National Museum. Join Australia’s STEM leaders, Parliamentarians and delegates at this fabulous black-tie event. Dinner tickets are included in all registrations.

Register

Registration options

In 2025, we're pleased to offer the option to register for day one only or both days of SMP. 

Importantly, meetings between delegates and Parliamentarians will only occur on day two. Attendees must register for the two-day registration to participate in the meeting program.

Additionally, tickets to the National Press Club address are limited and not included in any registration type. All delegates may purchase them separately.

What happens if an election is called before SMP?
If the election is called early in 2025 and the Government is in caretaker mode on 12 and 13 February, SMP2025 will be postponed. The event must take place during a Parliamentary Sitting Week. If required, revised SMP 2025 dates will be announced post-election. All registrations will be automatically transferred to the new date. If you're unable to attend, a refund will be offered. We advise all attendees to book flexible travel if possible. We apologise for the ambiguity – unfortunately, this is out of our control.

“

“I loved the panels - great length, incredible speakers, and really good targeting of key information. I learned so much."
SMP Delegate feedback, 2024

 

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 2025 at Hotel Realm; 
  • 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 2025 gala dinner – Celebrate science with a Night at the Museum at the National Museum of Australia. |
Full price for one-day registration:
STA Member $1,200 | Non-STA Member $1,500
ECR $1,050

Use code SMP25EARLY10 for 10% off—only until 13 December!

 

REGISTER – STA MEMBER
REGISTER – NON-STA MEMBER

Two-day registration

Delegates will attend SMP 2025 in its entirety. This includes the high-energy professional development the event is well-known for on day one, the celebration gala dinner, and day two in Australian Parliament House. Any delegate who wishes to have a meeting with a Parliamentarian MUST attend day two. 

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 2025 at Hotel Realm; 
  • Opportunity to purchase a ticket to attend the National Press Club address at the National Press Club of Australia;
  • One ticket to attend the SMP2025 gala dinner – Celebrate science with a Night at the Museum at the National Museum of Australia; 
  • Attendance on day two of Science Meets Parliament 2025 at Australian Parliament House;
  • Option to meet with a Parliamentarian during day two of the program (STA Members only). 
Full price for one-day registration:
STA Member $1,800 | Non-STA Member $1,990

Use code SMP25EARLY10 for 10% off—only until 13 December!

 

REGISTER – STA MEMBER
REGISTER – NON-STA MEMBER

Scholarships

Applications are open until 10.00 AM on Monday 16 December 2024

With the generous support of our sponsors,
STA members can apply for scholarships across six categories.

Disability
First Nations
LGBTQIA+
Neurodivergent
Regional and remote
Technology

Scholarships cover full registration fees, transport and accommodation to attend SMP2025 in Canberra.

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

APPLICATION FORM

Gala dinner

25th Anniversary of SMP | Celebrate science with a Night at the Museum

The 25th anniversary SMP gala dinner will be held in the halls of Australia’s National Museum. Join Australia’s STEM leaders, Parliamentarians, and delegates at this fabulous black-tie event. Dinner tickets are included in all registrations.

Ticket price: $220

One Gala dinner ticket is included in all delegate registrations.

Wednesday 12 February 2025
6:30–10:00 pm
National Museum of Australia

Full tables can be purchased; each table seats 10.

 

PURCHASE ADDITIONAL TICKETS

SMP2025 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
Welcome to SMP 2025
9:00 AMLeading with science: Elevating STEM for economic growth (Supported by CSIRO)
There are significant opportunities on the horizon for Australian science, and now is the time to prepare and build our sovereign capabilities. The panel will emphasise the importance of demonstrating the value of STEM to achieve Government policy objectives – while working towards deepening Australia’s R&D investment towards 3% of GDP and building stronger sovereign capability across the STEM sector.
9:50 AMMorning tea break 
10:20 AMNavigating democracy: A beginner’s guide to civics
What are the structures of Australia’s Parliamentary democracy, how do Parliamentary processes work? How can STEM professionals contribute effectively to inform decision-making? This session will cover how legislation originates and is passed, the role of inquiries, committee hearings, Senate Estimates and advice from the public service.
11:00 AMFrom research to reality: the role of Policy Advisors in decision making
In Australia’s political landscape, senior policy advisors play a crucial support role to Ministers, Senators and MPs in navigating complex policy areas and engaging with stakeholders. In this session, current and former advisors will share their insights, the pressures they face, and the most effective strategies for presenting valuable information to them and their leaders. Learn how scientists can help advisors translate research into actionable policy decisions. 
12:00 PMNational Press Club address
2:00 PMAdvocacy with impact: Turning passion into action 
How do Australia’s top advocacy leaders develop strategies, craft compelling messages, and build successful alliances? In this session some of Australia’s most influential changemakers will share their insights on effective advocacy and how they’ve turned their passion into actionable policy. They will emphasise the importance of clearly defining success and highlight how to forge coalitions that transform passionate ideas into tangible solutions. 
3:00 PMPitch perfect: How to talk about your science with confidence 
3:30 PMRefresher: Preparing to meet a Parliamentarian   
4:30 PMDay program concludes
6:30–10:00 PMWelcome Reception and Gala Dinner
25th Anniversary of SMP | Celebrate Science with a Night at the Museum
7:30 AMArrival and coffee

Meetings with Parliamentarians begin

8:00 AMSTEM in the House: Parliamentarians' perspectives (Supported by The University of Sydney)
What are the big problems currently front of mind for Australia’s elected officials? How can STEM help? How do Parliamentarians access STEM information and balance it against other evidence and voices in the debate? This panel of MPs and Senators will share their views on the significance of science for the nation and how it can support their policy development. 
9:00 AMInformed decisions: the research behind the curtain
Informed decision-making is crucial for effective governance, and there are many unseen researchers working in Parliament House. The Parliamentary Library and Parliamentary committees play a vital role in supporting Australia’s Parliamentarians with tailored research and analysis. Learn from dedicated staff who provide customised and confidential insight to Parliamentarians and advisors, synthesise advice and input from myriad stakeholders and help legislators navigate intricate policy issues
10:00 AM Morning tea break
10:30 AMScience of informing policy: strategic insights from departmental leaders
How do Government Departments collaborate effectively to find and deploy STEM research to tackle Australia’s most complex challenges? How is STEM research used to inform effective policy development? Heads of agencies will delve into the intricacies of public policy making, the role of the public service in identifying emerging opportunities, how departments engage with trusted stakeholders, and how they support Ministers in their decision-making processes.
11:30 AMPutting Indigenous Communities at the centre
How can we ensure that Indigenous communities are at the heart of – and benefit from – Australian research? This panel will explore the importance of collaboration, respect and sovereignty in research initiatives involving Aboriginal and Torres Strait peoples. Leading experts will discuss frameworks for meaningful engagement in both research and policy, share successful case studies, and discuss how prioritising Indigenous perspectives and equity can enhance research outcomes and foster mutual understanding and respect.
12:00 AMLunch (delegates provided boxed lunches and encouraged to view the grounds of APH)
13:30 AMGet to know STA
14:00 AMQuestion Time and Tours of Parliament House
15:15 AMUsing STEM for the greater good
What does a STEM career look like in 2025? What can scientists do away from the lab or the microscope? Hear from three amazing STEM-qualified leaders to learn how they’ve taken their science smarts and skills out of the lab and into the worlds of industry, politics and beyond – for the greater good of the nation.
16:30 PMEnd of day two (Please note, some meetings with Parliamentarians may be scheduled after this time)

Partners

Titanium

Gala Dinner

Australian Government ANSTO logo

ANSTO

Leadership Session

CSIRO logo

CSIRO

Parliamentary Forum

usyd

University of Sydney

Scholarships

Gold

Silver

Podcast

Care Support

Nametags

FAQs

Registration

What does my registration include?
All registration types include access to online runway sessions to prepare participants for SMP2025.

There are two registration types in 2025: 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.

The date for Day 1 of the program is Wednesday 12 February 2025, and the date for Day 2 is Thursday 13 February 2025.

One-day registration for SMP 2025 includes bespoke professional development, and one ticket to the gala dinner at the National Museum of Australia. 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 2025 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 2025 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 SMP2025, 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 SMP2025 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 SMP2025.

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 SMP2025?
On Day 1, please arrive at Hotel Realm at 8:00am. On Day 2, please arrive at the Australian Parliament House at 7:30am.

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

What is the dress code for SMP2025 and the National Gala Dinner?
The dress code for SMP2025 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 Hotel Realm or 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. Thanks to Accommodation Link, delegates can access discounts for select hotels. You can browse available hotels and discounted prices here.

Hotels in the vicinity of Australian Parliament House, the National Press Club, and Hotel Realm: 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, 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 SMP2025 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.

What if an election is called before SMP?
If the election is called early in 2025 and the Government is in caretaker mode on February 12 and 13, SMP2025 will be postponed. The event must take place during a Parliamentary Sitting Week. The new 2025 dates will be announced post election. All registrations will be automatically transferred to the new date. If you're unable to attend, a refund will be offered. We apologise the the ambiguity - unfortunately this is well beyond our control!

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 2025, Thursday 13 February 2025, 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 13 February 2025. 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.

Partnership Opportunities

Science Meets Parliament celebrates 25 years in 2025.

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 SMP2024 Impact Report

“

"I found all the panel discussions fascinating, I particularly now feel like I have a much better handle on the policy priorities for science in Australia and a greater understanding of how power and influence can be greater exercised by scientists through communication with policy makers.”
SMP Delegate feedback, 2024

“

"The gala dinner was a great opportunity for networking."
SMP Delegate feedback, 2024

“

“I loved the panels - great length, incredible speakers, and really good targeting of key information. I learned so much."
SMP Delegate feedback, 2024

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 2024, 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 SMP2025 (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 SMP2025 (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 SMP2025 (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 SMP2025 (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 SMP2025 (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 SMP2025 (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 SMP2025 (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 SMP2025 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 SMP2025 (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 SMP2025 (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 SMP2025 (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 SMP2025 as sustainable as possible with recyclable name tags and lanyards. 

Add your logo to the SMP2025 nametags worn by all delegates attending the event in Parliament House. 

Partner benefits

Company logo printed on SMP2025 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 SMP2025

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 SMP2025 scholarships.
  • Logo recognition in media release announcement of scholarship winners.

Scholarship recipients

  • Recipients receive full registration to Science Meets Parliament 2025.
  • Travel, accommodation, transfers & meals are provided for the recipients to attend SMP2025 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 Events 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.

Contact

For enquiries about SMP 2025, 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.