The latest STEM Equity Monitor data released this week provides critical data points for understanding progress, gaps and, critically, the case study voices of girls, women and non-binary people in STEM.
This is the fifth in an annual series of these vital reports - produced by the Department of Industry, Science and Resources - which track girls' and women's STEM participation from high school and into the workforce.
This year's data shows ups and downs and, in some instances, concerning statistical downs.
It highlights that overall, there is still a long road ahead to get more women and girls into science and technology studies and careers.
"While many changes may be a statistical anomaly given the small changes, for example, the very slight improvements in pay and employment gaps, we at Science & Technology Australia are hopeful progress is occurring," said STA CEO Ryan Winn.
Some notable insights include:
- 12-17-year-olds have a declining interest and confidence in most STEM subjects, and when STEM-qualified women enter the workforce, they are often likely to earn less than men.
- There was a reversal for agricultural postgraduate incomes, with surveyed females now earning more than men, but other fields showing an increasing gap.
- While research grant success rates for women and men in STEM fields were similar, women's success rates are now slightly higher for both NHMRC and ARC grants, including as chief investigators.
- Just 25% of senior management roles in STEM-qualified industries are occupied by women, and they make up only 10% of CEOs in STEM-qualified industries.
"This data is a stark reminder that more needs to be done to get girls engaged in STEM subjects at school, and provide them with equal opportunities once they are STEM qualified," said Mr Winn.
"STEM skills will be vital for our future economy. We need to ensure girls at school are interested in STEM subjects and feel confident doing them. Then, we must ensure that when they get into the workplace, they have the same opportunities in their careers as men."
"While we still await the Government's response, the Pathway to Diversity in STEM review highlighted programs that are making a tangible difference in encouraging girls and women into STEM study and careers, including STA's own Superstars of STEM program."
"We look forward to the Government's response to the review and continuing to work to break down barriers to a diverse STEM workforce that draws on the expertise of the entire community."
