The Coalition today announced $31.2 million for internships and post-school career advice to help support more women and girls to choose STEM careers.

Universities Australia Chief Executive Belinda Robinson said helping women to find their path in a STEM career was vital to realising the potential of Australian students.

“Quality career advice and internships will expose young people, particularly women, to the wonders of science and the possibilities that STEM careers offer,” Ms Robinson said.

“The internships and post-school advice will be of real value in ensuring young women study STEM disciplines and have the support they need to translate their university work into fruitful careers,” she said.

“We know that women are taking STEM subjects at university but we often lose them when it comes to a STEM career. Today’s announcement builds on a number of Government and university initiatives, including the SAGE program, aimed at redressing this trend.”

“Today’s announcement will also boost collaborations between universities and industry which is critical to creating the economy Australians deserve.”