About National Science Week

National Science Week billboard by the side of the road

For over ten years, we have been celebrating the contribution of Australian scientists to the world, encouraging interest in scientific pursuits and inspiring people to become fascinated by the world in which we live.

With ongoing support from the Australian Government and key industry bodies like Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), National Science Week continues to expand and now attracts a wide audience across all spectrums.

With scientific displays, theatrical events, debates and a myriad of science shows, National Science Week targets children to adults, science amateurs to professionals.

National Science Week:

celebrates our talents and achievements in science, engineering, technology and innovation in Australia;
provides an opportunity for all Australians to participate in events and activities that showcase science, engineering, technology and innovation;
showcases sciences’ modern explorations, making science interesting, challenging, important, and of direct relevance to our daily lives, from the well being of our society to the environmentally sustainable growth of our economy;
encourages younger people to consider continuing studies in science;
connects science studies and science-based careers;
fosters partnerships throughout the community;
had 1029 events registered on the web site in 2009;
in 2009 had over 1.3 million people attend and participate in events;
commissioned Newspoll surveys that reveal 50% awareness by the general public;
had 2003 print articles as well as national and international broadcast media coverage in 2009, with an estimated audience of 41 million people; and
attracts annual media coverage valued at $9 million.

Dates

2011: 13–21 August
2012: 11–19 August
2013: 10–18 August
2014: 16–24 August

Location

National Science Week events run throughout Australia. Events are held in both regional and cosmopolitan areas from Darwin to Devonport, Perth to Penrith and beyond. Major events are held in every capital city within Australia, including at museums, shopping centres, pubs, universities, schools, local libraries and other major public venues.