This report argues that Victoria is not producing enough science, technology, engineering & mathematics (STEM) professionals to meet current or future needs. It calls on the Government to enhance the status of science in the school curriculums and build on initiatives that encourage greater participation and diversity in STEM-related fields. 

Key points

• Addressing the skilled migration backlog is an important short-term mechanism to alleviate skills shortages, but for long-term success the Government must invest in local recruitment, training and retention.
• Participation rates in senior secondary science and mathematics courses have declined nationally since 2019, despite various efforts to uplift enrolments.
• Nine out of ten new jobs created between 2023 and 2028 will require skills developed through post-secondary education and training.
• Every dollar spent on research and development brings $3.50 back to the economy.

Recommendations

1. Enhance the status of STEM in the Victorian Curriculum.
2. Provide quality resources for teacher professional development and communities of practice.
3. Unlock more hands-on, experiential learning in STEM classrooms across the state.
4. Uplift recognition for STEM teachers.