What does the future of STEM look like, and how can young Australians help shape it?
From 12–14 September, 98 emerging STEM professionals from across Australia came together in Canberra for the 2026 National Youth STEM Summit, three days of big ideas, inspiring conversations and valuable connections.
Hosted across the Australian National University and the University of Canberra, the Summit brought together students, early-career professionals and leaders from across the STEM sector to explore the opportunities, challenges and unexpected pathways that can shape a career.
Under the theme Vision. Momentum. Pathways., delegates took part in 12 sessions featuring keynote speakers, thought-provoking panel discussions, practical workshops and networking opportunities.
They heard from an impressive line-up of speakers, including Australia's Chief Scientist, Professor Tony Haymet, Chief Defence Scientist Professor Tanya Monro AC, and University of Canberra Vice-Chancellor Professor the Honourable Bill Shorten.
From exploring the impact of artificial intelligence to developing professional networks and discovering career opportunities beyond the laboratory, delegates gained practical insights and inspiration for their next steps.
A highlight of the Summit was the Parliamentary Networking Event, where delegates had the extraordinary opportunity to hear from Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, and connect with parliamentarians and leaders from across the STEM sector.
The impact extended well beyond the sessions. For 63% of delegates, this was their first conference experience, while 90 received financial support to attend, helping make these opportunities more accessible.
Feedback was positive, with delegates rating their overall experience 4 out of 5, 76% indicating they would recommend the Summit to others, and 97% agreeing the program was fully accessible.
My highlight of the STEM Summit was hearing from a very diverse group of speakers, all with very different backgrounds and professions. It helped me realise how many pathways there are, a lot of which are not pre-planned.
Riley - Summit attendee
A huge thank you to our speakers, partners, sponsors and supporters who helped bring the Summit to life.The 2026 National Youth STEM Summit was a powerful reminder that there is no single pathway into STEM, and that the next generation has an important role to play in shaping its future.
