About Inspiring Australia NSW

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Inspiring Australia NSW builds influential networks that connect science and engineering researchers with diverse audiences across the state. Working in collaboration with hundreds of partners, we create memorable events and programs that explore emerging issues, celebrate scientific discovery, and showcase how Australian researchers and engineers are helping solve some of the world’s biggest challenges.

Why We Do This

Science is more relevant than ever. From the global pandemic to extreme weather events, recent years have demonstrated how much our wellbeing depends on scientific knowledge, including traditional wisdom from First Nations communities. These challenges have also sparked renewed public appreciation for the role of research in shaping a safer, more sustainable future.

Australia’s future prosperity and social wellbeing rely on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). While our nation has a vibrant and innovative research culture, many of these achievements remain largely unknown to the public.

We aim to change that. By connecting people with scientists and their work, we help communities see the impact of STEM in daily life; from health and climate to technology and design. Building public understanding of science supports informed decision-making, strengthens trust, and inspires the next generation to pursue STEM pathways.

Scientific literacy and critical thinking are also essential to individual and community wellbeing. When people understand the science, they can make better choices — about vaccination, sustainability, and the issues that shape our collective future.

As part of the national Inspiring Australia strategy to boost public participation in science, technology, and innovation, Inspiring Australia NSW champions the vital role of research and STEM knowledge in Australia’s economic and social future.

How We Work

We connect communities with science through programs that are entertaining, inclusive, and locally relevant. Our initiatives:

  • Bring science engagement into mainstream programs and policy discussions
  • Create unforgettable experiences that inspire wonder and curiosity
  • Highlight extraordinary discoveries and the people behind them
  • Unite like-minded organisations to strengthen collective impact
  • Show how science and engineering matter to everyday life
  • Build strong STEM outreach and engagement networks at a local level

Through these efforts, we’re making science a shared cultural experience across New South Wales.


Who We Are

In NSW, Inspiring Australia is guided by the NSW Inspiring Australia & National Science Week Executive Committee:

  • Emily Jateff (Chair) – Australian National Maritime Museum
  • Stuart Creal – Science Space at the University of Wollongong
  • Phoebe Cowdery – The CORRIDOR Project
  • Aleshia Lonsdale – Artist and curator
  • Mark Temple – Western Sydney University
  • Kristen Anderson – The University of Sydney
  • Bruce Ritchie – Office of the NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer

The Manager, Inspiring Australia (NSW) role is jointly held by Meredith Hall and Karen Player.

Our Partners

Inspiring Australia NSW is a collaborative partnership between:

  • The Commonwealth Department of Industry, Science and Resources
  • The NSW Office of the Chief Scientist & Engineer
  • The University of Wollongong

Contact us if you’d like to collaborate or learn more about our programs.


The initiative is part of the Australian Government’s Science Engagement strategy Inspiring Australia.

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