Urgent boost needed for science and maths education
The Australian Academy of Science today urged the Federal Government to redouble its efforts to attract and retain university students in science and mathematics.
The Academy’s Executive Committee of Council today met to discuss a $403.6 million cut to HECS support for science, mathematics and statistics students, announced this week in the Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook 2011-2012.
“The number of young Australians studying science and maths at high school and university has been in steady decline for two decades,” Academy President, Professor Suzanne Cory said.
“We are slipping behind neighbouring countries in maths and science performance at secondary school and there are growing shortages in the workforce of young people with maths and science skills.
“This decline in enrolments must be addressed. The Academy calls on the Government to respond with policies to support improved primary and high school science and mathematics education and to attract and retain university science and maths students.
“Australia’s robust economic future depends upon innovation. This is not the time to withdraw support for the next generation of scientists and mathematicians.
“The Australian Academy of Science urges the Government to support science education at all levels with both policy and Budget measures.”
The Academy welcomes the opportunity to work with Chief Scientist Professor Ian Chubb to develop new means for lifting student participation rates in science and mathematics.
The Australian Academy of Science is a Fellowship of Australia’s leading research scientists. It is committed to recognising scientific excellence, improving science education and public awareness, informing science policy and fostering international scientific relations.

We are only 20 minutes drive from Yanchep, north along the Wanneroo Road/Indian Ocean Drive.

Drop in on your way north – we are just past Yanchep National Park, on the way to Lancelin or the Pinnacles.

We had an amazing time at the Royal Show and hopefully all of Perth now knows that the Gravity Discovery Centre is still open and going strong!!!

Visit us  soon. we have lots of great activities,art exhibitions and amazing Wildflowers. A special “Thanks”  to all the volunteers who helped us man our Royal Show booth. Most of them were staff members who donated their time at the actual show and behind the scenes. We could not have made it happen without all of your help!!