• More than $3.3 million in new funding allocated to kick-start WA's STEM skills strategy and drive WA's future jobs
• Up to 1,200 teachers to receive professional development training
• Initial stages of the strategy to focus on teacher professional development in low socioeconomic public schools, promoting STEM and introducing new initiatives 

The McGowan Government today announced the goals and pillars of Western Australia's first ever State STEM skills strategy to drive WA's future jobs and future skills.

Science Minister Dave Kelly also announced an initial $3.3 million investment by the McGowan Government to begin the delivery of the strategy over the next four years.

This funding will be used for professional development of more than 1,000 teachers in lower socioeconomic public schools over the next four years, STEM communication, mentoring programs, and digital and technology programs.

A panel, made up of industry experts, researchers, educators and chaired by WA's Chief Scientist Professor Peter Klinken, developed the goals and pillars of the strategy.

The strategy aims to:

• Prepare students with STEM skills for the jobs of the future;
• Upskill the current workforce with STEM skills that are required to embrace a technological future;
• Increase the participation of under-represented and disadvantaged groups; and
• Increase STEM culture and the community's recognition of the importance of STEM skills.   

The strategy will complement other government election commitments in STEM, including $17 million for science programs in up to 200 public primary schools including resources to create science labs, and making coding part of the school curriculum.

The State Government will also be seeking support from industry to partner in the development and resourcing of future STEM programs.

By 2030, it is estimated that workers will spend double the amount of time solving problems and 77 per cent more time using science and mathematics skills.