Australia’s prominent STEM gender equity initiative was terminated last week, potentially yielding positive outcomes.

Australia’s Women in STEM Ambassador position has been discontinued, according to Science and Industry Minister Ed Husic. The role was created in 2018 to encourage women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. While it is difficult to measure the ambassador’s success, Department of Industry figures show that the number of women in STEM-qualified occupations increased by 38% during the ambassador’s tenure, compared to a 10% increase for men. Additionally, university enrolments for women in STEM courses grew by 18%, compared to a 9% increase for men. However, a recent independent report on diversity in STEM commissioned by the Department of Industry, Science and Resources suggests that more needs to be done to address cultural and systemic barriers that hinder individuals from diverse backgrounds from entering and sustaining careers in STEM. The report recommends specific changes to the government’s Women in STEM programs, including discontinuing the Women in STEM Ambassador program. The decision to discontinue the position is based on this advice and the government’s recognition that previous initiatives lacked strong research and evaluation, failing to address disparities between different STEM fields. Moving forward, the government is likely to implement the report’s suggested changes, which may include a broader perspective on equity in STEM, stronger evidence-based programs, and a more coordinated approach. However, there may be potential drawbacks such as national centralization affecting states’ ability to address specific needs and increased bureaucracy. The success of efforts to increase diversity in STEM will depend on the government’s commitment and transparency in setting clear priorities and focusing on key areas.