The NYSF welcomes Australia’s National Science Statement and National Research Priorities

The National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) warmly welcomes the release of the Australian Government’s National Science Statement and the National Science and Research Priorities and commends Australia’s Chief Scientist, Dr Cathy Foley, and Minister for Industry and Science, the Hon Ed Husic MP, for their strong leadership and consultative approach.

The National Science and Research Priorities focus on transitioning to net zero, supporting healthy and thriving communities, elevating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems, protecting and restoring Australia’s environment, and building a secure and resilient nation.

NYSF applauds the imperatives that will shape Australia's science and technology investment over the next decade, particularly the strong focus on building a diverse and skilled workforce to address the challenges facing our Nation now and into the future.

NYSF is delighted to be recognised in the National Science Statement as an organisation that has brought public engagement and interest in science to many communities through our programs for young Australians over 40 years. NYSF programs have helped more than 15,000 people find their science and technology future since 1984.

“We are proud that NYSF’s long-term commitment to engaging communities and fostering the next generation of STEM talent is recognised in the National Science Statement. NYSF is dedicated to building a diverse and skilled workforce and strengthening public trust in science, ensuring that our nation is well-prepared for current and future challenges," said NYSF Chair of the Board Patricia Kelly PSM GAICD.

The NYSF supports the strong focus in the Statement and Priorities on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems.

NYSF Board Member and Kamilaroi man, Professor Bradley Moggridge is quoted in the Australia’s National Science and Research Priorities and provides guidance to increase participation of Indigenous youth and ensuring Indigenous knowledge is included in NYSF programs. “Today’s launch of the National Science Statement and Priorities proves that science is moving in the right direction where Indigenous knowledge is an equal, allowing for the Indigenous and Western systems to work together producing solutions for repairing country and tackling challenges with better science,” said Professor Moggridge.

“It’s crucial that we remove barriers for young Australians from groups most underrepresented in the science and technology workforce to enable them to help us solve the Nation’s current and future challenges. NYSF is proud of the work we do to create a future where everyone has a place in shaping Australia’s science and technology landscape," said NYSF CEO Dr Melanie Bagg GAICD.

Media Contact: Dr Catherine Wheller, NYSF: 0491 044 104 | catherine@nysf.edu.au

Professor Lachlan Blackhall, Professor Bradley Moggridge, Alicia Payne MP, the Hon Ed Husic MP, and Dr Cathy Foley AO PSM FAA FTSE at the release of Australia's new National Science Statement and Priorities.

About the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF)
The NYSF is a not-for-profit organisation whose vision is to inspire more young Australians to engage in science and technology futures. Operating since 1984, 15,000 young Australians have graduated from our NYSF Year 12 Program, one of the best-known science and technology experiences in Australia. NYSF delivers a range of immersive youth-led programs that inform, support and create opportunities to connect young Australians with diverse science and technology pathways.

The NYSF is committed to improving diversity in our science and technology workforce by supporting inclusive pathways for women, First Nations people, and others typically underrepresented in STEM through our NYSF Access and Equity Scholarships and tailored selection process. Our programs consistently have over 60% participation of young women and over 40% of participants from remote and regional areas.