More funding to sell maths and science careers to women

Australia desperately needs to increase the number of women in science and maths.

Australia desperately needs to increase the number of women in science and maths, Jobs and Innovation Minister Michaelia Cash said as she announced funding for a program highlighting the role of women in the sector will double.

Senator Cash said by 2030 Australian workers would spend 77 per cent more time using science and mathematics skills.

“Meeting the demand for these skills will require us to tap into the entire pool of STEM talent in our population,” she said.

But just 16 per cent of university and VET graduates in STEM were women, she said.

The minister said the Superstars of STEM program would be extended to fund 60 women, up from the 30 currently participating, and the scheme would be ­extended for another four years.

“This means more leading women in science and technology will be provided with support and training to promote their fields of research, to work towards equal representation in the media, and to become great role models for the next generation,” she said.

The program works with ­female scientists and technologists to boost their communication skills and profile so that young women see the profession in a more attractive light.

Professor Michelle Yvonne Simmons became the new Australian of the Year in January for her pioneering work in the field of quantum computing.

Professor Simmons is keen to see more women in science. “Seeing women in leadership roles and competing internationally is important. It gives them the sense that anything is possible,” she said.