Event · National
National Youth STEM Summit
Three days to shape your future STEM career.
About the program
The National Youth STEM Summit is a three-day, conference-style event for people aged 18 and over who are studying or starting out in STEM. In 2026, it runs in Canberra from 12 to 14 September, themed “Shaping Your STEM Career.” Expect keynotes from leading scientists, panels, skill-building workshops, and networking with peers and professionals.
What’s included
- Keynotes from leading STEM professionals
- Networking with peers and mentors
- Showcases and panels
- A national community
Who it’s for
People aged 18 and over in tertiary study or training, or in the early stages of their careers. Others are welcome if they feel it would benefit them.
Common questions
When and where?
12 to 14 September 2026, at the ANU Research School of Physics, University of Canberra and the Australian Parliament House.
Can I attend if I’m not 18 yet?
The National Youth STEM Summit is strictly for over-18s. If you are under 18, you can explore our other programs.
How do I register?
Registrations are now open via Eventbrite here. Sign up to be notified.
Is there a cost involved?
Tickets for the National Youth STEM Summit are $250, but please get in touch at nysf@nysf.edu.au if there are any barriers.
- 12–14 September 2026Three days
- CanberraANU, UC & Parliament House
- 18 and overStudy or early career
- Registrations open$250 · support available
What to expect
Three days, three themes
Day 1 · Vision
Looking forward: what the future may hold for attendees in their chosen STEM fields.
- 9.30amArrival
- 11.00amOpening Keynote
- 12.00pmNetworking Lunch
- 1.00pmWho Decides the Future of STEM? Policy, Ethics & Innovation
- 2.00pmCareers that Don’t Exist Yet, in conversation with Australia’s Chief Scientist, Professor Tony Haymet
- 3.00pmAfternoon Tea
- 3.30pmWhere Will Science & Technology Take Us?
Day 2 · Momentum
The skills attendees will need to succeed in their future STEM careers.
- 10.00amDay 2 Keynote
- 11.00amBeyond the Textbook: skills no one teaches you
- 12.00pmNetworking Lunch
- 1.00pmWorkshop: Polishing Your Presence, delivered by Dr Fiona Scotney
- 3.00pmAfternoon Tea
- 3.30pmWorkshop: Pitching Yourself/Working the Room
Day 3 · Pathways
The pathways open to attendees, culminating in a Parliamentary Networking Event in the Mural Hall of Australian Parliament House.
- 10.00amThe Scenic Route: Non-Linear Careers & Opportunities You Didn’t See Coming
- 11.00amYour Next Steps: Graduate Programs, Internships & Opportunities in STEM
- 12.00pmNetworking Lunch
- 1.00pmSTEM Study and Careers Expo
- 3.00pmAfternoon Tea
- 3.30pmClosing Keynote
- 4.30pmEvent Close
- 5.30pmParliamentary Networking Event, Australian Parliament House
Participant voices
Don’t take our word for it
Aiesha 2025 Summit delegate
Attending the 2025 National Youth STEM Summit was an incredibly rewarding and inspiring experience.
Naveed 2025 Summit delegate
The discussions around real-world impact, especially in energy transition and emerging technologies, were truly inspiring and reinforced my commitment to contributing through research and collaboration.
Stacey 2024 Summit delegate
A jam-packed weekend of inspiring panels and equally fantastic peers. I most certainly would recommend and hope to return in future.
Keep exploring
Other programs
School holidays
NYSF STEM Hubs
Non-residential STEM experiences a little closer to home, held throughout the year.
Past participants
Student Staff Leadership
Step up as a leader and help run NYSF for the next cohort.