A delegation of early career researchers from the Forrest Research Foundation had the wonderful opportunity to attend Science Meets Parliament 2026 in Canberra, to meet with a number of politicians and discuss a wide range of scientific issues that are of interest to the public. From plastics pollution, astrophysics, the challenges of preventing family violence, and the power of kelp forests in fighting climate change, it was an opportunity for rich discussions between our scientists and policy makers.
A real highlight was the closing session by Anna-Maria Arabia, Chief Executive at the Australian Academy of Science, and Professor The Hon Bill Shorten, who discussed the challenges of contemporary universities and how to build trust while also valuing respectful disagreement.
This was an incredible opportunity for our researchers to observe how science-informed policy can have such an impact for improving society!
