What is the National Youth STEM Summit?
The National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) is proud to deliver the 2026 National Youth STEM Summit in Canberra, from 12 to 14 September 2026.
The STEM Summit is a three-day conference-style event specifically designed to help those studying in STEM to discover their professional identity and take real steps toward their dream STEM career.
This year’s NYSF National Youth STEM Summit has the theme: Shaping Your STEM Career. Vision. Momentum. Pathways.
Over three purposefully designed days and customised content streams, attendees will explore the future of science and technology pathways, build the STEM adjacent skills employers are looking for, and connect with the opportunities, people and organisations that will define their careers.
The program boasts a diverse range of sessions, including:
- Keynote presentations from Australia’s top leaders in science and technology
- Panel discussions exploring diverse pathways and big ideas
- Workshops that build attendees study, career, and networking skills
- Networking opportunities to connect with like-minded peers and key government, industry and academic professionals
Location: Research School of Physics, Australian National University & Ann Harding Conference Centre, University of Canberra
Dates: Saturday 12 – Monday 14 September 2026
Registrations for the 2026 NYSF National Youth STEM Summit will be opening soon. Sign up to be notified when registrations open.
Who can attend the STEM Summit?
The STEM Summit is designed for people aged 18+ who are currently pursuing tertiary studies and training or are in the early stages of their careers. However, we also welcome individuals outside this scope to attend if they feel the conference may benefit them.
Why should I attend the STEM Summit?
Wondering why you should attend the STEM Summit? Dive into some of our previous delegate testimonials below.
Attending the 2025 National Youth STEM Summit was an incredibly rewarding and inspiring experience. Over three days at Swinburne University of Technology, I had the privilege to engage in thought-provoking presentations, interactive tours, and meaningful networking opportunities, all of which have strengthened my confidence in pursuing a career in STEM
– AIESHA, 2025 National Youth stem summit delegate
“I recently had the incredible opportunity to attend the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) STEM Summit, where I connected with amazing delegates from across Australia, all passionate about various STEM fields. My highlight of the program was undoubtedly Dr. Cathy Foley’s keynote lecture, where she spoke about Australia’s future in STEM and the critical steps we need to take to address global challenges like climate change. It was truly inspiring. I was also honoured to meet Dr. Foley in person at the NYSF’s 40th Anniversary Gala Dinner at Parliament House. A truly unforgettable experience!” – Zeb, 2024 National Youth STEM Summit delegate.
The highlight of the STEM Summit for me was the opportunity to connect with passionate peers and leaders who are driving innovation across Australia. The discussions around real-world impact, especially in energy transition and emerging technologies, were truly inspiring and reinforced my commitment to contributing through research and collaboration.
– Naveed, 2025 National Youth STEM Summit delegate
“I made so many connections with absolutely incredible and inspiring people over the course of the Summit that, by the end of the Summit, connecting with other people had become my favourite part.” – Julia, 2024 National Youth STEM Summit delegate.
“So fortunate to have been a part of this incredible experience both as a young Indigenous Woman and as an aspiring academic. A jam packed weekend of inspiring panels and equally fantastic peers. I most certainly would recommend and hope to return in future.” – Stacey, 2024 National Youth STEM Summit delegate.
I’m interested in sponsoring the 2026National Youth STEM Summit
If you’re a government, industry, or academic organisation that is interested in hearing more about sponsorship opportunities at the 2026National Youth STEM Summit, please contact us at partnerships@nysf.edu.au.
