Local organisations in Bonner with research project ideas that encourage the community to get involved are invited to apply for a Citizen Science Grant.

Grants of between $150,000 and $500,000 are available to support projects encouraging community participation in four key research areas: disaster resilience and preparedness, environmental change, cyber security and artificial intelligence, and food and agribusiness.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP said the grants not only provide exciting opportunities for the organisations but also enable members of the community to get involved and participate in discoveries which could have an impact across the country.

“Citizen Science grants are all about coming up with innovative solutions to some of our biggest national challenges,” Mr Vasta said.

“I encourage organisations across my electorate to put their research project ideas forward for grants.”

Citizen Science Grants are part of the Inspiring Australia – Science Engagement Programme, which encourages community participation in science and technology, with $4 million available over four years.

Applications for Round 2 are open until 17 December. For more information visit https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/citizen-science-grants

‘Destination Moon’ is the theme of this year’s National Science Week and the students at Wynnum West State School were getting into the spirit with their creative moonscape maze.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP visited the school on Monday where year five students were using iPads to drive sphero robots around a moonscape maze.

“The sphero robots were purchased thanks to a federal government science grant and is an important part of the school’s STEM program,” Mr Vasta said.

“It’s incredible to see the enthusiasm for science with students using robotic technology and learning how to code.”

Mr Vasta said National Science Week was a great opportunity to celebrate the social and economic impact of science on our nation.

“We can’t underestimate the importance of science, research and innovation, which are key drivers of the Morrison Government’s plan for a stronger economy,” Mr Vasta said.

“It’s particularly important that we inspire kids to study science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects and I’m pleased our government is helping schools achieve this.

“Many of the jobs of the future will require STEM skills and it’s crucial we have students embracing these subjects through primary and secondary schooling.”

For more information visit www.scienceweek.net.au