Engineers Australia's submissions, backed by member expertise, are helping to make change at a Federal level. 

Our advice is referenced in the Productivity Commission’s interim report Australia’s Circular Economy: Unlocking the Opportunities, which provides the government with evidence and practical advice to shape policy on Australia’s circular economy transition.  

Eleven recommendations from the Diversity in STEM Review - which Engineers Australia contributed to - have been adopted by the Federal Government. 

Find out about more Engineers Australia’s contribution to both initiatives below. 

Circular economy 

Australia’s Circular Economy: Unlocking the Opportunities, outlines strategies to improve material efficiency and sustainability across the country. 

Engineers Australia made a submission to the inquiry, which is referenced multiple times in the interim report.  

Our advice included recommendations such as improving data sources, designing for disassembly, the need to harmonise specifications and standards across jurisdictions and the risk profile perception of recycled materials, which can impact financing and insurance options. 

The interim report notes that while there has been some progress, Australia’s transition to a circular economy remains slow. It highlights the importance of improving material efficiency across all stages of a product’s life cycle. 

Engineers Australia’s contribution to this inquiry builds on our long-standing engagement with circular economy policy, including our involvement in the Circular Economy Ministerial Advisory Group (CEMAG). CEO, Romilly Madew, was a member of CEMAG, which delivered its final report in December 2024.  

We remain committed to working with our members, government and industry to address barriers and advocate for engineering-led solutions. 

If you want to learn more about the circular economy read our quick explainer.   

Diversity in STEM 

The Australian Government committed to implementing all 11 recommendations from the Diversity in STEM Review, something Engineers Australia called for in February.  

This means the government will work to promote equity and diversity throughout education and careers to address stereotypes, and eliminate workplace bullying, harassment, racism and discrimination in STEM. 

CEO Romilly Madew said we want to work with the government in making sure innovative solutions are funded so that more people can embark on careers in STEM.  

“Women and other under represented groups need tailored initiatives to help develop their skills and to ensure that Australia is equipped to unlock the jobs of today and those we seek to create into the future.” 

“Engineers Australia will work to assist in rolling out some of the fresh thinking that is needed to tackle these challenges including ensuring that the ‘E’ in STEM is recognised as a national priority.” 

Engineers Australia’s Global Talent Engineering program which provides migrant engineers with local experience, references and networks, is mentioned in the final report from the Diversity in STEM review. 

Acting Chief Engineer Bernadette Foley said Engineers Australia will continue to advocate for an engineering perspective on the Advisory Council and for tailored strategies that recognise the unique challenges across STEM fields - moving beyond one-size-fits-all approaches.