An independent panel set out to find ways to increase diversity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Its recommendations highlight the need for more ambitious and strategic action.

The panel’s final report contains:

• detailed recommendations for creating structural and cultural change in Australia’s STEM system
• a strategy for designing and delivering diversity in STEM programs.

The recommendations aim to drive coordinated and impactful actions to increase diversity and inclusion of people underrepresented in STEM education and jobs. It includes actions for industry, governments, the education sector, not-for-profits and individuals.

This report contains 11 detailed recommendations - summarised as:

1. The Australian Government committing to a whole-of-government, long-term strategy to increase diversity and inclusion in STEM. This includes establishing a dedicated advisory council supported by dedicated government resources.
2. The Australian Government establishing a suite of diversity in STEM programs, as detailed in the Diversity in STEM Program Strategy in the final section of this report. This includes embedding best-practice program design elements across programs, making changes to the current Women in STEM program suite, and establishing new programs that address barriers for underrepresented cohorts.
3. Every Australian organisation employing STEM workers committing to the elimination of bullying, harassment and discrimination, including racism.
4. Every Australian organisation employing STEM workers adopting, making public, and implementing, a plan to increase attraction, retention and promotion of underrepresented cohorts. 
5. The Australian Government making Australian STEM workplaces safer, more diverse and inclusive by changing grant and procurement processes for STEM-related programs. This includes providing guidance to help organisations implement the recommendations in this report, and examining the need for further changes, such as legislation or changes to other financial arrangements.
6. The Australian Government including a focus on STEM in implementing any strategies in response to the 2023 Review of the Migration System.
7. The Australian Government working with states and territories to improve participation and achievement in STEM skills and subjects in schools.
8. The Australian Government preparing and supporting educators to teach STEM in a way that is responsive to the needs of diverse cohorts.
9. The Australian Government working with states and territories to ensure that national tertiary education reforms increase access, participation and attainment of underrepresented cohorts in STEM education.
10. The Australian Government preferencing First Nations scientists and researchers applying for government funding for projects that affect or draw from First Nations Knowledges and knowledge systems, and working with First Nations Communities to develop further ways to elevate First Nations Knowledges. The Learned Academies working with the academic community and Traditional Knowledge holders to build respect, awareness and better practices to weave First Nations Knowledges into science and research systems.
11. The Australian Government developing a communication and outreach strategy to increase awareness, visibility and importance of diversity in STEM to emphasise the opportunities and potential for careers in STEM.