Commitments to deepen relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in STEM and elevate the profile of First Nations' STEM expertise are at the heart of Science & Technology Australia's new Reconciliation Action Plan launched today.
The Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) builds on the foundations established in the organisation's first Reconciliation Action Plan in 2021.
It was launched online today with a national online event involving the STA membership community across the country – and highlighted how our whole community can contribute to the shared leadership of our RAP commitments.
The event also highlighted the upcoming Voice to Parliament referendum – with practical information on how the STA community can get involved.
STA made a Statement of Support earlier this year for a Yes vote at the referendum.
Yes 23 Campaign National Campaign Director and Quandamooka man Dean Parkin shared insights on the historic opportunity before Australians.
STA's Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan has been illustrated with a stunning artwork titled 'The Journey' by Wiradjuri artist Lani Balzan.
Over the past year, STA has been honoured to welcome our third First Nations member organisation – Indigenous Climate Change – and celebrated the election of Quandamooka mathematician Professor Chris Matthews to the STA Board.
"Chris' towering contribution to our leadership has been a privilege to witness," said STA President Professor Mark Hutchinson.
"For STA, there is more to do as we continue to deepen our community's skills, knowledge and relationships," he said.
"As an organisation, we are proud to embark on our second RAP and use this to guide our actions over the next two years as we work towards a more reconciled future in Australia."
Science & Technology Australia CEO Misha Schubert said the strong focus of the second RAP was on deepening relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and organisations in STEM.
"We want to use our powerful platforms and grassroots networks to elevate the profile of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and knowledge in STEM."
"And we want to help enable the aspirations of the National Indigenous STEM Professionals Network to ensure Indigenous voices are heard."
"We will also continue our powerful policies of shared responsibility to research and teach insights on First Nations STEM knowledge, history and place in Acknowledgements of Country, and ground our work in deep relationships of trust."
