Science Meets Parliament (SMP) serves as a dynamic platform for fostering in-depth dialogue between Australia’s STEM community and policymakers.
This year, with over 360 delegates, more than 90 Parliamentarians taking part, a record-breaking 540 attendees at the gala dinner in the Great Hall at Australian Parliament House and more than 50 incredible speakers – Science Meets Parliament was the biggest ever, smashing records everywhere you look.
Members of Phenomics Australia, including Associate Professor Amee George, Dr. Liz Jazwinska, Associate Professor Jim Hennessy, Professor Glenn Withers, and Professor Paul Thomas, participated in this event, actively engaging in discussions with Members of Parliament. Their conversations centred on highlighting the indispensable role of Precision Medicine research infrastructure and the profound impact of Phenomics Australia and the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS).
In both the opening and gala dinner addresses, Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic, alongside Shadow Minister for Science Paul Fletcher, underscored the significance of SMP. They emphasized the pivotal role of research and development in shaping the nation’s future, acknowledging the invaluable contributions of Australia’s scientists and technologists.
Additional insights were shared during addresses by Dr. Cathy Foley, Australia’s Chief Scientist, at the SMP gala dinner, and by STA President Professor Sharath Sriram during his compelling presentation at the National Press Club. These gatherings further highlighted the critical importance of collaboration between the scientific community and policymakers in driving progress and innovation in Australia.
Thanks to Science and Technology Australia for organizing this event.
