JMSS students support the national campaign for science investment

At 5:00 a.m. on a chilly August morning, while most of Melbourne was still asleep under the cover of winter darkness, a group of Year 10 students from John Monash Science School was already wide awake and buzzing with excitement. They had gathered at Swinburne University’s Hawthorn campus to take part in a unique STEM experience as part of the Australian Academy of Science’s “Restore Science” campaign.

“Restore Science” is a national initiative advocating for stronger support for Australian researchers and increased investment in scientific research. Through the campaign, the Academy invited JMSS students to represent the next generation of Australia’s scientific workforce, providing them with opportunities to engage with cutting-edge science beyond the classroom and gain insight into the future of research and innovation.

The morning began at Swinburne’s state-of-the-art facilities, where students were welcomed into a world of science, technology and engineering. As cameras from Channel 7’s Sunrise program captured the event, participants rotated through a series of immersive experiences showcasing how scientific research and technological innovation are helping shape Australia’s future.

One of the highlights was an interactive demonstration featuring advanced robotics technologies with the potential to transform aged care and healthcare services. Students observed and interacted with robots designed to assist with everyday tasks, sparking discussions about the role of artificial intelligence and automation in enhancing the quality of life. In a playful moment, the group successfully programmed the robot to make the popular “six-seven” hand gesture, delighting the audience and lighting up the room.

Beyond robotics, students were introduced to innovative methods of 3D concrete printing, learning how emerging technologies are helping engineers create more sustainable and efficient building designs.

The exploration continued with a visit to the Swinburne Virtual Universe, home to a more than 100-square-metre stereoscopic LED wall. Surrounded by breathtaking high-resolution 3D visuals that stretched across their field of view, students were immersed in the wonders of space. They listened to fascinating presentations by Professor Matthew Bailes and Dr Kirsten Banks, who took them on a journey through the Solar System, the Milky Way and the mysteries of black holes, giving students a rare opportunity to experience the universe not only through sight, but through sound as well.

They also visited the Aviation Simulation Laboratory, where they experienced the challenges and precision of landing an A320 aircraft through a highly realistic flight simulator.

Reflecting on the experience and the campaign’s broader message, John Monash Science School Principal Mr Andrew Chisholm emphasised the importance of investing in science education and research.

“The importance of a strong science education must be reinforced in Australia, and funding increased so our young scientists can pursue pathways in the new emerging and developing fields of science,” Mr Chisholm said.

The “Restore Science” campaign provided a powerful reminder that today’s students will become tomorrow’s researchers, innovators, and problem-solvers. By connecting young people with leading-edge technologies and real-world scientific challenges, the experience inspired students to imagine the possibilities that lie ahead in Australia’s STEM future.

Find out more about the campaign by visiting: restorescience.com.au.