The Australian Academy of Science wants input on a national plan to get more women in STEM fields.

The academy has put out the call for views on the barriers and enablers that affect participation, retention and success of women and girls in science, technology, engineering and maths – STEM.

Feedback on the Academy’s discussion paper will inform a 10-year roadmap, which is being developed in partnership with the Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering on behalf of the Federal Government.

Women are lost at every stage as they seek to advance their career in STEM fields, due to a range of factors including stereotypes, discrimination and workplace culture and structure, according to Australian Academy of Science chief Anna-Maria Arabia.

This 10-year roadmap will give the nation a pathway to achieving success in this area.  Input from individuals and organisations across Australia is critical to ensure its success, and we encourage governments, research, industry, the not for profit sector and the media to participate,” Ms Arabia said.

The expected outcomes of the Women in STEM 10-year roadmap are:

•       sustained improvements in gender equity in STEM

•       increased opportunity for women and girls to gain STEM skills and participate in STEM careers

•       increased benefits to business and society from increased access to STEM skills and a diverse workforce

Consultation workshops will be held in each state and territory in September and October 2018.

More information is available here.