On 25 November 2025, Prof Tony Haymet delivered a speech as part of the Marie Krogh Young Women in Science Prize and Oration.

Thank you for the opportunity to join you tonight as this important prize is launched.

I’m speaking on the traditional lands of the Ngunnawal people. I pay my respects to them, and to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples here tonight.

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Prizes matter!

This prize is named after a role model from long ago, and it spotlights the role models of today and tomorrow.

Elevating role models matters. Who in this room has not had role models who encouraged and inspired us?

By improving the visibility of science careers – and the diversity of people in those roles – we show what a career in STEM can look like. And what a contribution it can make!

This award recognises women making outstanding contributions – in terms of innovation, impact and leadership.

It’s a fitting trifecta for a prize named after Dr Marie Krogh whose pioneering work spans basic research and successful clinical application.

She translated scientific discovery into life-saving treatment that was also commercially stable. No mean feat!

Her innovative, collaborative and determined approach is a lesson to us all as we strive to achieve our personal and national objectives.

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To achieve our national goals in science and technology, we must tap into the significant talents of under-represented groups – including women. We must support them and celebrate them.

Progress is being made, but it’s too slow. Women make up just 15 percent of people working in STEM-qualified occupations.

So, we need to encourage women into STEM roles and we need to keep them in the workplace. Only 31 percent of women STEM graduates from 2011 were still working in STEM 10 years later - compared to 56 percent of men.

Women hold only a quarter of senior management roles in STEM industries, and CEO representation is even lower.

And as you know, when it comes to women in STEM, it’s not just about the numbers. It’s also about supporting the involvement of women who face extra hurdles. For example:

•    women from migrant communities
•    carers
•    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women
•    neuro-divergent women.

Plus:
•    people with a disability
•    and women who face socio-economic barriers.

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Tonight’s award highlights female science professionals in their early- and mid-careers.

This is often a time when many juggle increasing professional demands as well as significant personal responsibilities.

It’s also a time when employers and organisations can shine by creating work environments that offer flexible work options. For example – parental leave, carers leave, childcare, part-time work.

It’s a time that calls for systems that recognise that career breaks are often part of our workplace journeys. And they should not prevent the resumption of scientific careers.

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You see, we want people to flourish in their jobs – and we can’t afford to lose their talents.

We want to fuel their momentum, support their work, applaud their wins.

And awards like this are part of that. They highlight excellence, and support women in science, medicine and technology.

And what better time to mention another award than at a prize ceremony like this!

I want to remind you that nominations are now open for the 2026 Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science.

And in doing so, I want to share a photo that tells a powerful story about the power of awards – like this one tonight.

The photo was taken this month at the PM’s Prizes for Science.

Like you, they introduced a new award, the PM’s Prize for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Knowledge Systems.

The MC was Aboriginal woman Rae Johnston. And when she invited Indigenous scientists and knowledge-holders on stage, the result was this panoramic shot of many faces.

Not long ago, that would have been rare.

The PM’s prize sends a clear message: Indigenous Knowledge Systems – and peoples – are vital to Australian science.

Your award does the same – sending a message to girls and women! A message that STEM is rewarding, stimulating, and essential to building a prosperous, secure Australia.

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So, I applaud companies like yours that spotlight the excellent contribution of women in science.

And most of all, I applaud the nominees, the finalists and the winner of tonight’s award.

Like Dr Marie Krogh, you are the role models that inspire all of us – and help to light that path for the next generation.

And remember - prizes matter!

Thank you.