About SmP
SmP is a science communication event that is coordinated by
Science & Technology Australia (formerly FASTS). More information about SmP is available on the
Science & Technology Australia website. One of
the aims and objectives of SmP is "To provide scientists with a unique professional development
opportunity to get a clear sense of the competing rationalities of science, politics and public
policy." On the first day the scientists attend a Briefing and will hear from experienced lobbyists,
parliamentary staffers and politicians themselves about how they can engage politicians
successfully. This day concludes with a formal Parliament House dinner held in the Great Hall. The
second day is spent exploring behind the scenes at Parliament House where well over 100 formal
meetings between the scientists and Parliamentarians take place. There is also a series of ancillary
events that are held over the two days including breakfast briefs, forums and a National Press Club
address.
SmP is an event that assists science advocacy because it addresses the important question of "What
does Australia gain from public investment in science".
Attending SmP
As a Science & Technology Australia member society the ASA are assured of at least two places. However, there may be spaces
available for additional nominees particularly in areas of high demand from Parliamentarians. Limited funds are available to support ASA members to attend SmP.
The SmP registration process begins early in the calendar year. The ASA
Council consider the nominees who can register to attend this event. Nominees must be ASA members. Science & Technology Australia
ask that people who have already attended two or more SmPs do not register so as to provide
opportunities for newcomers. Science & Technology Australia also request that member societies explicitly target early and
mid-career researchers.
Preparation
Before the event ASA attendees should organise the following:
- Information Packs to hand out to Parliamentarians.
- Personalised Business Cards to hand out to each person they meet.
- Suitable Attire Business Attire for both days and "Lounge Suit" for the Parliament Dinner.
- One upbeat, clear and concise sentence that describes their research (in case they cross paths with the Prime Minister).
- Early registration and request to be included in the Breakfast Forums (limited availability).
- Contact past SmP attendees for their advice.
The ASA Council will assist by providing a Briefing Sheet.
Science & Technology Australia also provides a Participants Guide.
Attendees should provide a written report to the ASA council describing their SmP experience.
Any ASA member who is interested in attending SmP should contact:
Kate Brooks
ATNF, CSIRO Astronomy and Space Science
Kate.Brooks -@- csiro.au
Astronomers who have recently attended SmP
(sometimes nominated by other paths rather than officially representing the ASA)
- SmP2011 - Daniel Bayliss (RSAA), Sarah Brough (AAO), Marc Duldig (UTas), George Hobbs (CASS) and John O'Byrne (USyd)
- SmP2010 - Amanda Karakas (RSAA), Lisa Harvey-Smith (USyd), Daniel Price (Monash) and Simon O'Toole (AAO)
- SmP2009 - Darren Croton (Swinburne) and Geraint Lewis (USyd)
- SmP2008 - Mary Mulcahy (ATNF), Scott Croom (USyd) and Harvey Butcher (MSO)
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