ASC Co-Presidents’ Message, Jirana Boontanjai and Tom Carruthers

We hope this note finds you in good spirits. Last month, our colleagues Claire, Phil, Adam, Preeti, and Isabella represented the ASC at Science Meets Parliament. They had the opportunity to engage with policy-makers and stakeholders, and reported having a great and inspiring time. We will post a detailed blog and webinar about the event and their experience soon.

In the past month we have also provided input into two national policy issues and extend our gratitude to those members who contributed. We contributed to STA’s submission on Developing Advanced Manufacturing in Australia and secondly, both of us have contributed to a roundtable with the Chief Scientist on the refresh of the National Science Priorities and Statement. We expect to share these submissions publicly soon. We thank those who have contributed to this process – your insights and perspectives are invaluable. If you are interested in contributing to the policy sub-group in the future, please let us know (contact@asc.asn.au).

Looking ahead, we know many will be attending the PCST conference in Rotterdam (April 12-14). Tom will be attending, presenting our in-person bid for the 2027 PCST conference. We wish Tom and all ASC members the best of luck, and look forward to hearing about your time and gathered insight.

You may have noted that we’ve started to publish some pieces on the ASC2023 conference, including most recently, Prof the Hon Kim Carr’s speech on A Scientifically Engaged Australia. Keep an eye on our blog as we continue to publish resources and pieces there.

Finally, we have become aware of a contract issue within the Inspiring Australia Network that has ramifications for science communicators and the community in the ACT. We are following up with our colleagues in this space and investigating how the ASC can best support. We will keep you informed via our blog or email but should you wish to have additional engagement, feel free to get in touch.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to another exciting month of science communication!

Tom & Jirana

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