From g.golini at unsw.edu.au  Mon Aug  3 09:10:00 2026
From: g.golini at unsw.edu.au (GIULIA GOLINI)
Date: Sun, 2 Aug 2026 23:10:00 +0000
Subject: [ASA] The ASA ECR History and Mystery series is back!
Message-ID: <SY4PR01MB58336658349A52DDE68EFB7AC6D62@SY4PR01MB5833.ausprd01.prod.outlook.com>


Dear ASA Community,


The History & Mystery series is back, and the ASA ECR Committee is excited to invite you to another season of talks exploring some of astronomy's biggest questions and the stories behind them.


This year, we will host three fantastic speakers:


10 September
Andrew Hopkins (Macquarie University)
The History and Mystery of the stellar Initial Mass Function


The birth of stars and the formation of galaxies are cornerstones of modern astrophysics. While much is known about how galaxies globally and their stars individually form and evolve, one fundamental property that affects both remains elusive. This is problematic because this key property, the birth mass distribution of stars, referred to as the stellar initial mass function (IMF), is a key tracer of the physics of star formation that underpins almost all of the unknowns in galaxy and stellar evolution. It is perhaps the greatest source of systematic uncertainty in star and galaxy evolution. I will trace the history of measurements of the stellar IMF spanning the past seven decades, showing how the discussion has evolved, with a flavour for some of the personalities and conflicts along the way. I will introduce how arguments for the case that the IMF varies has slowly made an impact over the past two decades, and present some of the recent work and potential future directions for the field.



5 November
Nick Seymour (CIRA)
What are QSOs, wrong answers only?


19 November
Michelle Cluver (Swinburne University)
The History and Mystery of our Dusty Universe


When: 1:00?2:00 pm AEDT (10:00?11:00 am AWST)
Where: Online via Zoom


Each session is just one hour long, making it easy to join from wherever you are. These talks are designed for the whole ASA community and offer a chance to learn something new, ask questions, and engage with colleagues across Australia.


Visit our website to learn more about the speakers and talks:
https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/aIc9C3QNPBiGQ2ED7IgfZNhQFH0t?domain=asa-ecr.org


Although the sessions are free, we ask that you register via TryBooking:
https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/YdqCC4QOPEim1lv4YFxhGlh4Wxgl?domain=trybooking.com


Registering helps us estimate attendance and, most importantly, ensures you will receive the Zoom link and a calendar invitation so you won't miss the sessions.


You can also subscribe to the ASA ECR Google Calendar to keep up with upcoming events:
https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/IqkYC5QPXJixG6Dkgfyiq4hkFb8i?domain=calendar.google.com


We hope you will join us for another great History & Mystery series, we are looking forward to seeing you online!


Best,

Giulia
On behalf of the ASA ECR Committee

This email was sent at a time convenient to me; I do not expect a response outside of normal working hours.
Dr Giulia Golini
Research Associate
School of Physics, UNSW Sydney
Email: g.golini at unsw.edu.au


This email and any files transmitted with it may contain confidential information. If you believe you have received this email or any of its contents in error, please notify me immediately by return email and destroy this email. Do not use, disseminate, forward, print or copy any contents of an email received in error.

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From chandra.murugeshan at uwa.edu.au  Mon Aug  3 11:38:39 2026
From: chandra.murugeshan at uwa.edu.au (Chandra Murugeshan)
Date: Mon, 3 Aug 2026 01:38:39 +0000
Subject: [ASA] Reminder: Register for the AusSRC Community Engagement
 Workshop
Message-ID: <SY4PR01MB5611687749A48F54B30BB6CDADD52@SY4PR01MB5611.ausprd01.prod.outlook.com>

Dear ASA community,



Apologies if you receive this multiple times!



A gentle reminder to please register to attend or present at the AusSRC Community Engagement Workshop (CEW) to be held on the 12th of August.



For more information, and to register, please visit the AusSRC CEW announcement page here<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/og9MCZY1NqiDNA7MRizfVXhBfRKI?domain=aussrc.org>


Registrations close today, 3rd August 2026.

[cid:43f31c37-3e5d-4a1b-85dc-0664e3213bd2]

Regards,
Chandra Murugeshan (He/Him)
Research Fellow - AusSRC Support Scientist
The University of Western Australia
ICRAR UWA


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From brent.groves at astronomyaustralia.org.au  Mon Aug  3 13:23:28 2026
From: brent.groves at astronomyaustralia.org.au (Brent Groves (AAL))
Date: Mon, 3 Aug 2026 03:23:28 +0000
Subject: [ASA] Call for Applications to the AAT Time Allocation Committee
Message-ID: <SY4PR01MB6316B8532DBDD74E4268D9D6C5D52@SY4PR01MB6316.ausprd01.prod.outlook.com>

Internal


Call for Applications to AAT Time Allocation Committee (ATAC)

Applications close on Monday 17th August, 9:00 AM AEST.



On behalf of the Anglo-Australian Telescope (AAT) Council, Astronomy Australia Limited (AAL) seeks applications for four positions on the AAT Time Allocation Committee (ATAC): two commencing immediately and two commencing next year (Jan 2027).  Applications are sought from individuals experienced in use of the AAT and its instruments.

For the positions beginning immediate, ATAC particularly seeks nominations from those with expertise in stellar astrophysics  or galactic archaeology for assessment of research proposals that require use of the AAT, but all applications are welcome.



AAL and the AAT

Australia?s largest optical telescope, the 3.9m AAT at Siding Spring Observatory, is operated using funding from a consortium of Australian universities (the AAT Consortium), and these operations are governed by the AAT Council. The telescope Operator for the Consortium is the Australian National University (ANU), with AAL playing the role of Manager of those operations on behalf of the AAT Consortium. AAL is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee, whose members are all Australian universities and research organisations with significant astronomical research capability.?



ATAC

The ATAC allocates time on the AAT, as well as Australian time on international telescopes as required. ATAC meets twice a year around May and November. The membership of ATAC aims to balance different research fields to ensure an informed and equitable allocation process for both telescopes. The term of an ATAC member is generally for 3 years but may be staggered to ensure smooth turnover in membership.



Applications

If you consider yourself well placed to contribute to ATAC via your expertise, ideas, and experience, please email info at astronomyaustralia.org.au<mailto:brent.groves at astronomyaustralia.org.au?subject=ATAC%20Member%20queries> and brent.groves at astronomyaustralia.org.au<mailto:brent.groves at astronomyaustralia.org.au> with a maximum three-page application that includes:

?         a covering letter describing your expertise relevant to the committee, particularly in relation to the areas of expertise listed above

?         a brief CV

?         any relevant conflicts of interest.



AAL will review all applications and make recommendations to the AAT Council for formal appointment. The review will consider relevant expertise of candidates, career stage and geographical placement, applying a selection process that addresses the principles of membership as stated in the AAT Time Allocation Policies and Procedures<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/2Ve9COMKzVT0K34nnsEfB2hGyNfg?domain=astronomyaustralia.org.au>.

Please do not hesitate to contact Brent Groves<mailto:brent.groves at astronomyaustralia.org.au?subject=ATAC%20Member%20queries> (AAT Tech. Sec), if you have any questions regarding the role and this process.

AAL is committed to equity and diversity and encourages applications from everyone with the appropriate expertise and skills.



Dr Brent Groves (He/Him)
Program Manager
Astronomy Australia Ltd (Perth Office)
https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/h-saCP7LAXfoxQMWWS0hlXhxS5qd?domain=astronomyaustralia.org.au

[/Users/00102515/Library/Containers/com.microsoft.Outlook/Data/tmp/Content.MSO/DEB4697C.tmp]
AAL endeavours to be an environmentally sustainable organisation built upon equity, diversity and mutual respect for its staff and stakeholders.

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From richard.mcdermid at mq.edu.au  Tue Aug  4 11:15:56 2026
From: richard.mcdermid at mq.edu.au (Richard McDermid)
Date: Tue, 4 Aug 2026 01:15:56 +0000
Subject: [ASA] Fwd: Reminder: STA Member Webinar ARC NCGP Update
References: <lftfm000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000TJ7UYJ00O0ws0dTRQqmJ7ceMRO10cg@sfdc.net>
Message-ID: <0878B1EB-EB1C-4EAF-98FB-39591B16C0AD@mq.edu.au>



[https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/NtjoCnx1jniKoWNJ5i9fQqhJa8M8?domain=sta.file.force.com]
STA Member Webinar | Rapid Response

 ARC National Competitive Grants Program Update

Dear Richard,

The Australian Research Council (ARC) is reshaping the National Competitive Grants Program (NCGP), and we're bringing the ARC directly to our members to explain what is changing and what comes next.

STA has supported calls to revitalise grant funding to modernise Australia's research funding landscape, including the NCGP. We welcome these reforms, but are aware that this is a significant change and therefore we encourage all interested members particularly researchers, research leaders and research support professionals to attend.

Note: you are welcome to share this invite with your own members and staff.

In this STA-specific member briefing the ARC CEO Professor Ute Roessner AM FAA will outline:

  *
the new suite of grant schemes, and how these change from existing schemes
  *
the thinking behind the NCGP reforms
  *
likely implementation and transition arrangements
  *
what the changes could mean for researchers, research infrastructure and our sector.

Unlike the ARC's general webinars, this event will give our members an opportunity to hear directly from the ARC in a session tailored to our community, including time for questions.

To assist us ensure this meets your needs, you can submit questions prior to the event through the registration form.

Details
Date: TOMORROW Wednesday 5 August 2026
Time: 11am AEST
Format: Online

REGISTRATION ESSENTIAL <https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/MrbSCoV1kpfBzw374szhq8hpD265?domain=sta.eventsair.com>

Contact events at sta.org.au<mailto:events at sta.org.au> with any questions.

Warm regards,
Science & Technology Australia

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From N.Tothill at westernsydney.edu.au  Mon Aug  3 21:57:04 2026
From: N.Tothill at westernsydney.edu.au (Nicholas Tothill)
Date: Mon, 3 Aug 2026 11:57:04 +0000
Subject: [ASA] New eROSITA data release - DR2
Message-ID: <c7652c4e-655b-481a-9d49-6229ab110bd8@westernsydney.edu.au>

Hi ASA folks,

The AAL-eROSITA committee would like to announce a new eROSITA-DE data release - DR2.
eROSITA-DE DR2 has been published and provides catalogues of X-ray sources in hard and soft bands, detected by combining 3 eROSITA passes. The eROSITA-DE data cover the western Galactic hemisphere (l=180 to l=360, b=-90 to b=+90). DR2 also includes multiwavelength counterparts and redshifts. It is available at:
https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/uBVECWLVXkUPBG9gQf6fkEho3SoP?domain=erosita.mpe.mpg.de<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/uBVECWLVXkUPBG9gQf6fkEho3SoP?domain=erosita.mpe.mpg.de/>
DR2 coincides with the new data release from SDSS (DR20), including the southern sky.

More details are available at the AAL website
https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/PjA2CXLW2mUqY05ygIVhL4hWXh8w?domain=astronomyaustralia.org.au

Best wishes,
the AAL/eROSITA_DE Management Committee:
Werner Becker (MPE)
Marcus Brueggen (Hamburg)
Sabrina Einecke (Adelaide)
Mara Salvato (MPE)
Nick Tothill (Western Sydney)
Christian Wolf (ANU)
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From Amanda.Gray at csiro.au  Tue Aug  4 12:40:17 2026
From: Amanda.Gray at csiro.au (Gray, Amanda (She / Her) (S&A, Marsfield))
Date: Tue, 4 Aug 2026 02:40:17 +0000
Subject: [ASA] ATUC meeting: 3 and 4 September 2026 [SEC=OFFICIAL]
In-Reply-To: <SY5P282MB45536D5F0928F1CD4540EA998198A@SY5P282MB4553.AUSP282.PROD.OUTLOOK.COM>
References: <SYBPR01MB5631195C776E931DE581FEFB818D2@SYBPR01MB5631.ausprd01.prod.outlook.com>
 <SYBPR01MB5631054A430252798C2AF2268143A@SYBPR01MB5631.ausprd01.prod.outlook.com>
 <SY5P282MB45536D5F0928F1CD4540EA998198A@SY5P282MB4553.AUSP282.PROD.OUTLOOK.COM>
Message-ID: <ME3P282MB0867BA737CB6ABFBE3CC16A981D42@ME3P282MB0867.AUSP282.PROD.OUTLOOK.COM>

OFFICIAL

Dear all,

The Australia Telescope Users Committee (ATUC) meets regularly to discuss issues that impact users of the ATNF. The next ATUC meeting will be held on 3 and 4 September 2026 at the CSIRO offices in Marsfield (Sydney). On 3 September an Open Session will be held that consists of updates and discussions on the various aspects of ATNF facilities.?

All are welcome to register to attend the ATUC?Open Session. Registration?is available using the link below:??
ATUC Open Day Registration<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/xKgvC1WLPxckYXymmfLfp5hV95-H?domain=forms.cloud.microsoft>

General registration for ATUC will close at 17:00 AWST on 21 August.??

An agenda for the Open Session will be posted on the ATUC webpage<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/pnmPC2xMQziRwQqGGI1h3zh5USnL?domain=atnf.csiro.au>, and details for hybrid participation will be made available to registered attendees closer to the event.   

If you, as a user (or potential user) of the ATNF, are aware of any issues that need to be raised at the next ATUC meeting, or would like to offer feedback on ATNF activities and facilities, you can do so via the ATUC Community Submission Form<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/MY4QC3QNPBiGQv1MMf2iZNhQr5wV?domain=forms.office.com>  or by contacting any member of ATUC over the next few weeks. 

Information on ATUC and how to contact its members can be found at:?
https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/M0-OC4QOPEim1xNWWCWsGlh4l5jf?domain=atnf.csiro.au  
?
Kind regards,?
Amanda Gray?
ATUC Coordinator
On behalf of ATNF / ATUC?



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From N.Tothill at westernsydney.edu.au  Wed Aug  5 00:39:05 2026
From: N.Tothill at westernsydney.edu.au (Nicholas Tothill)
Date: Tue, 4 Aug 2026 14:39:05 +0000
Subject: [ASA] eROSITA workshop, October 12-14
Message-ID: <09ddddb0-e81f-4055-ae14-7ce82d40c9be@westernsydney.edu.au>

Hello again ASA,

The AAL-eROSITA committe invites you to join us for an online collaboration workshop in 3 sessions over October 12-14. If you're working with eROSITA-DE data or are interested in working with it, and you're eligible to be part of the AAL/eROSITA-DE collaboration (i.e. affiliated with a member institution of AAL), please join us. For more information, and to submit your abstracts and registration, please visit
https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/r4UwCQnMBZf3WqrmPuxf9DhGuW8t?domain=astronomyaustralia.org.au

Registration and abstracts are due by Friday 11 September.

For queries, please contact the eROSITA Australian Science Lead, Nick Tothill at N.Tothill at westernsydney.edu.au<mailto:N.Tothill at westernsydney.edu.au>

Best wishes,
the AAL/eROSITA_DE Management Committee:
Werner Becker (MPE)
Marcus Brueggen (Hamburg)
Sabrina Einecke (Adelaide)
Mara Salvato (MPE)
Nick Tothill (Western Sydney)
Christian Wolf (ANU)

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From dcroton at swin.edu.au  Wed Aug  5 10:59:03 2026
From: dcroton at swin.edu.au (Darren Croton)
Date: Wed, 5 Aug 2026 00:59:03 +0000
Subject: [ASA] Coding with AI: Agents, subagents,
 and orchestrator/worker workflows - Thu 6th Aug 2-3pm
In-Reply-To: <209BF45F-E817-40DA-AE7F-D9D2ED132C29@swin.edu.au>
References: <209BF45F-E817-40DA-AE7F-D9D2ED132C29@swin.edu.au>
Message-ID: <21F68605-2C56-4002-83D6-B32171FFE8F5@swin.edu.au>

Hi all.

A quick reminder about tomorrow?s AI coding workshop, on Zoom and in-person at Swinburne. Details below.

If anyone wants to preview some of the skills I?ll be discussing, have a look here:
https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/kSYSC91WPRTMBpxZXUofNQhq6eFP?domain=github.com

Thanks,
Darren


On 30 Jul 2026, at 3:44?pm, Darren Croton <dcroton at swin.edu.au> wrote:

Dear ASA members,

The next Coding with AI workshop will be run next Thursday, 6th August, from 2-3 pm, located in AMDC801 (Swinburne) and on Zoom (link below).

This time around, we?ll tackle some more advanced topics, including:


  *   Writing and using skills as a superpower
  *   When and where to delegate work to agents, both within the harness and externally to other harnesses
  *   Keeping track of your agent minions and ensuring quality and accuracy

This workshop is aimed at more experienced AI coding enthusiasts, and those just starting out and looking to up their game.

Zoom Link:
https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/HqNdC0YKPviM3L4E5UDhPzh9AHfz?domain=swinburne.zoom.us
Meeting ID: 756 407 223
Password: 059918

Past Workshops*:
Workshop 1: <https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/e__yCgZ0N1im27NgRf2ik6h4-g4k?domain=dropbox.com> Introduction to coding with AI<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/e__yCgZ0N1im27NgRf2ik6h4-g4k?domain=dropbox.com> (2026-07-02)
Workshop 2: <https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/pL-8CjZ1N7i3qvA6Xi7sAjhmu0GH?domain=dropbox.com> Coding with AI - building a project from scratch<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/pL-8CjZ1N7i3qvA6Xi7sAjhmu0GH?domain=dropbox.com> (2026-07-16)

Looking forward to seeing you next Thursday!
Darren


*You may need to login to Dropbox to see the full recording.

?
Prof Darren Croton (he/him)
ARC Future Fellow

Centre for Astrophysics & Supercomputing
ARC Centre of Excellence for Dark Matter Particle Physics
Swinburne University of Technology

P: +61 39214 5537
E: dcroton at swin.edu.au
M: H74, PO Box 218, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia
W: https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/6UnVCk81N9trQp4LjTJtnYhG8QFt?domain=astronomy.swin.edu.au

I respectfully acknowledge the Wurundjeri People, and their Elders past, present, and emerging, who are the traditional custodians of the land on which Swinburne?s Australian campuses are located.



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From richard.mcdermid at mq.edu.au  Fri Aug  7 13:32:49 2026
From: richard.mcdermid at mq.edu.au (Richard McDermid)
Date: Fri, 7 Aug 2026 03:32:49 +0000
Subject: [ASA] Fwd: STA Member Update | 7 August 2026
References: <ed2baff1a44edef5b0e88a871.e978d00ae0.20260807031645.87d3fdee35.07948eb3@mail91.suw111.mcdlv.net>
Message-ID: <29104E35-1685-4A94-9809-DE233575627E@mq.edu.au>



View this email in your browser<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/2C_wCZY1NqiDZKJOlszfVXhBO9Z6?domain=mailchi.mp>
<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/vQDWC1WLPxckyJVv3tGhp5hVcEGn?domain=us.list-manage.com>
[https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/VlrLC2xMQziRq5Mn1TBi3zh53hN1?domain=mcusercontent.com]
The STA Member Update is sent to the leadership of member organisations. Please forward to your executive and membership, including the policy submission and funding opportunities below.
7 August 2026
Dear Richard,

It has been a busy fortnight across the Australian STEM sector, with new collaborations taking shape, important policy conversations underway and fresh reminders of the challenges facing science and technology in Australia.

It was terrific to speak at the launch of the Australian Research Translation and Innovation Consortium (ARTIC) in Sydney earlier this week. ARTIC is a new national initiative bringing together the ARC Centres of Excellence to strengthen connections between research, industry and innovation. In my session, I highlighted the important opportunity this presents, and why we must all, individually and collectively, continue our discussions with Government about the next steps for Ambitious Australia.

Rarely a week goes by without discussion of AI, and this fortnight was no exception. These were valuable conversations about how the research sector is already using AI and what it needs to make better use of it. Notably, STA joined a roundtable with Minister Charlton on data centres and met with various departmental and parliamentary stakeholders to discuss the infrastructure, skills and capability gaps that must be addressed to support Australia?s AI ambitions.

These conversations will continue next week at a roundtable on AI in research led by Swinburne University Chief Scientist and STA Board member Professor Virginia Kilborn. Bringing together leading experts, the discussion will explore governance, ethics and human?AI collaboration, and include the launch of a national survey to help shape future research-sector action and policy. You are most welcome to join also via this link<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/lZ_wC3QNPBiG1DnLqtDsZNhQ6o-H?domain=us.list-manage.com>.

Following the long-awaited release of the Australian Research Council?s (ARC) National Competitive Grants Program Policy Review, STA this week hosted a member-exclusive webinar with ARC CEO Professor Ute Roessner. The webinar was extremely valuable, and members had the opportunity to have their questions about the changes answered. With nearly 300 people registered, it demonstrated just how important these reforms are to our sector. We greatly appreciate the work done by the ARC to implement these changes as well as their generosity to take the time to brief our members.

Less encouraging were the latest NAPLAN results, particularly the findings on mathematics. It would be remiss of me not to ask whether out-of-field maths teaching is contributing to this challenge. This is an issue STA and a number of our members have been raising over the past 12 months and advocating for policy changes. We cannot expect stronger mathematics outcomes, and a sustainable STEM pipeline, without ensuring teachers have the skills and support they need to help their students succeed.

STA also welcomed yesterday?s announcement that Simon Draper will become the next Secretary of the Department of Industry, Science and Resources, an important partner in our work including being the foundation partners of Science Meets Parliament. Mr Draper will move from the NSW public service, where he is currently heading up the Premier?s Department, succeeding Meghan Quinn following her move to lead the Department of Defence.

Together, these appointments bring welcome certainty to leadership across Australia?s higher education, science and research systems as we move through a significant period of reform.

With best wishes,

Ryan Winn
CEO, Science & Technology Australia

REPORTS AND POLICY

  *
The Department of Industry, Science and Resources issued the updated STEM Equity Monitor<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/10R8C4QOPEimN4XLgHVtGlh4ns5W?domain=us.list-manage.com>.
  *
The Australian Labor Party held its 50th National Conference and published a Draft National Platform<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/uPnBC5QPXJixmkBqEC8uq4hkktWZ?domain=us.list-manage.com>.
  *
CSIRO CEO Dr Doug Hilton<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/cSNIC6XQ4Lf12L5QzUBC7Xh5pIwG?domain=us.list-manage.com> addressed the National Press Club.
  *
The Minister for Science and Minister for Industry, Senator Tim Ayres, announced a new memorandum of understanding between Australia and Japan<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/IDokC71R2NTQ5GD3li2F3jhoDplp?domain=us.list-manage.com> on science, technology and innovation, including quantum cooperation.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR SUBMISSIONS

  *
The Department of Health, Disability and Aging is consulting on the MRFF Australian Research and Innovation Strategy 2026?2031 and Priorities 2026?2028<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/I-2ZC81V0PTzVNon1iEHgwhyKaQh?domain=us.list-manage.com>. Submissions close 16 August.
  *
The Treasury is consulting on draft legislation<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/OB5lC91WPRTMy4GoQCQINQhqtKu5?domain=us.list-manage.com> to enact changes to capital gains tax and negative gearing. Submissions close 21 August.
  *
The Department of Industry, Science and Resources is consulting on:?
     *
the review of the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation Act 2023<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/a2vlC0YKPviMON16VCpSPzh9nWi4?domain=us.list-manage.com>. Submissions close 11 August.
     *
the Critical Minerals Production Tax Incentive<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/4v7nCgZ0N1imXEMV9HxTk6h4ngIc?domain=us.list-manage.com>, submissions close 11 August.  

For policy related matters contact STA Director of Policy and Engagement Dr Sarah Tynan<mailto:sarah.tynan at sta.org.au>.
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GRANT FUNDING AND OPPORTUNITIES
Superstars of STEM applications are open

Open to women and non-binary people, the Superstars of STEM program equips brilliant, diverse STEM experts with advanced communication skills and opportunities ? in the media, on stage and in schools. The result: we?re growing a critical mass of more diverse celebrity scientists appearing regularly in the Australian media to inspire our next generations of young Australians into STEM study and careers.

Applications are open<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/AqxpCmO5gluAwyOEzClh8mhRKtvq?domain=us.list-manage.com> until 20 August. The final information webinar will be held on Wednesday 12 August, 3pm AEST. You can register here<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/aaLjCnx1jniK098MvfriQqhJ_Pro?domain=us.list-manage.com>.


  *
DCCEEW has submitted a tender for Up to 10 members to be appointed to a new National Ecosystem Accounts (NEA) Technical Expert Reference Group (TERG) for 12 months (with possible extension to 24 months). The purpose of TERG is to provide independent, expert technical advice to support development and continuous improvement of NEA. The TERG will comprise members with expertise in ecology and biodiversity science, environmental economics, environmental-economic accounting and spatial data architecture. Respond now<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/if_iCoV1kpfBN2OxEc0sq8hpz2O4?domain=us.list-manage.com>.
  *
Join ANSTO on 19 August for a webinar on OPAL, an open pool light water reactor. The webinar will discuss the ways OPAL brings benefits to Australia and the how it supports the work of the International Atomic Energy Agency in the peaceful applications of nuclear technologies. Register now<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/oVsECp81lrtvr4YXmt6t2NhGB00S?domain=us.list-manage.com>.
  *
Applications are open for the Rozetta Institute Scholarship Awards, providing $15,000 over 12 months to support postgraduate research with strong industry impact. Recipients will receive mentoring, access to Rozetta?s research and industry networks, and support to develop an impact assessment and implementation plan that strengthens research translation. Apply now<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/Og-nCq71mwfzAYqmZi9uKphECafy?domain=us.list-manage.com>.
  *
Applications are open for the Libraries of the Australian Technology Network of Universities (LATN) grants<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/VGA9Cr81nyt1KQgLEUOC6Zh4UDPu?domain=us.list-manage.com> of up to $50,000 to support the transition of traditional textbooks/resources to Open Educational Resources (OER).
  *
Nominations for the 2026 Queensland Women in STEM Prize<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/sOFHCvl1rKi2mwQMxtBFlxhQujXm?domain=us.list-manage.com> close 18 August. The Queensland Women in STEM Prize is a statewide competition for women within the first 10 years of their STEM careers and who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and impact to Queensland. Nominate yourself or someone you know now<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/QnlgCwV1vMfAMlBYKCkHG6hJljwf?domain=us.list-manage.com>.


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2026 STA member networking events
Registrations are now open for STA?s annual member networking events taking place later in the year. These events are an excellent opportunity to meet STA staff and board as well as other members. See below for dates and locations:
Brisbane - Monday 14 September: Register now<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/c-7YCzvkyVCxlW5J6CDT7Wh9g6c2?domain=us.list-manage.com>
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Sydney - Thursday 10 December: Register now<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/NuUGCBNqjlCMQWYEjC4cyWh2ktgX?domain=us.list-manage.com>
<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/j8kzCD1vlpTn2Y4gqUzfGxhjVrLf?domain=us.list-manage.com>
[https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/vzwJCE8wmrtgr4ERLi5hGNh7Yo6t?domain=mcusercontent.com]
Monthly Members Meet
Join us online for a virtual catch up with the STA team and other STA members on 11 August at 12PM AEST. Share your insights, celebrate successes and discuss any concerns. Registration is essential<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/GDtwCGv0oyC0x3vjktGimXhBTT8x?domain=us.list-manage.com>.
<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/qagiCJyBrGf1G9N0ZUrs34hyiay2?domain=us.list-manage.com>
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Annual Member Survey
Science & Technology Australia's annual member survey<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/KSQ0CL7EwMfmxB6EKHnuDWhyCxwQ?domain=us.list-manage.com> is your chance to shape our priorities for the next 12 months. It will take just 5 minutes, and your ideas will directly inform what we discuss at the 2026 STA Leadership Dialogue and guide our work on new projects and member services.
Completing the survey will enter your member organisation into the draw to win a ticket to Science Meets Parliament 2027.
Only one representative from each member organisation needs to complete the survey. The survey closes 3 September.
STA delivers strong benefits to members, including discounted professional services via our Member Benefits Program<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/vrFlCMwGxOtRKBNEXTlCZ9h87M1u?domain=us.list-manage.com>.

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From dcroton at swin.edu.au  Fri Aug  7 16:44:19 2026
From: dcroton at swin.edu.au (Darren Croton)
Date: Fri, 7 Aug 2026 06:44:19 +0000
Subject: [ASA] Coding with AI: Agents, subagents,
 and orchestrator/worker workflows - Thu 6th Aug 2-3pm
In-Reply-To: <21F68605-2C56-4002-83D6-B32171FFE8F5@swin.edu.au>
References: <209BF45F-E817-40DA-AE7F-D9D2ED132C29@swin.edu.au>
 <21F68605-2C56-4002-83D6-B32171FFE8F5@swin.edu.au>
Message-ID: <D339C67F-0BE8-4D1F-8602-763D6B43370A@swin.edu.au>

Hi everyone.

Thanks for attending yesterday?s AI workshop. Dropbox and iCloud download links below:

Workshop 1: <https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/ln_LC81V0PTzV4xKXHnfgwhyiVEw?domain=dropbox.com> Introduction to coding with AI<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/ln_LC81V0PTzV4xKXHnfgwhyiVEw?domain=dropbox.com> (2026-07-02) (iCloud mirror<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/_sd6C91WPRTMy7PpztEhNQhqJbKV?domain=icloud.com>)
Workshop 2: <https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/LPOEC0YKPviMOPlLkt2iPzh90Hld?domain=dropbox.com> Coding with AI - building a project from scratch<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/LPOEC0YKPviMOPlLkt2iPzh90Hld?domain=dropbox.com> (2026-07-16) (iCloud mirror<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/p8A9CgZ0N1imXQn7qS3sk6h4K5zJ?domain=icloud.com>)
Workshop 3: Agents subagents and orchestrator worker workflows<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/d0BDCjZ1N7i3LNkvYt1tAjhmeV1t?domain=dropbox.com> (2026-08-06) (iCloud mirror<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/kILYCk81N9trVGZpkh8unYhGvzQ9?domain=icloud.com>)

The next workshop will be TBD, so stay tuned!

In the meantime, consider joining the upcoming AI in Research Roundtable discussion, 14th August. Details below.

Thanks,
Darren



AI in Research Roundtable discussion

Join us for a national roundtable on Artificial Intelligence in Research, bringing together experts to discuss the opportunities, challenges and responsibilities of AI in Australian research.

This event aims to guide sector-wide approaches and future actions regarding responsible AI integration in research practices.

  *
The program features a?keynote by Professor Melanie Johnston-Hollitt?on the AI landscape and policy considerations.
  *
An expert panel addresses topics including?governance, ethical considerations, and human-AI collaboration.
  *
The roundtable includes an?interactive audience survey?and launches a National AI in Research Survey to inform ongoing initiatives and policy development.


Speakers Include
Professor Virginia Kilborn
Swinburne Chief Scientist, Swinburne University of Technology
Professor Melanie Johnston-Hollitt
Executive Director, Curtin Institute for Data Science, Curtin University
Professor Darren Croton
Professor of Astrophysics, Centre for Astrophysics and Supercomputing, Swinburne University of Technology
Dr Kathy Nicholson
Institute Manager, Australian Institute for Machine Learning, Adelaide University
Professor Tara Murphy
Head of School, School of Physics, The University of Sydney
Professor Anna Ma-Wyatt
Professor, School of Psychology, Adelaide University
Dr Sarah Tynan
Director?of Policy and Government Relations, Science and Technology Australia
Ryan Wynn
CEO, Science and Technology Australia

Event Details
Date: Friday 14 August 2026
Time: 12.00pm ? 2.00pm
Platform: Teams
?Register here: https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/LOOlClx1NjiAJ4Dv1SVCMJhzGEJp?domain=events.humanitix.com



On 5 Aug 2026, at 10:59?am, Darren Croton <dcroton at swin.edu.au> wrote:

Hi all.

A quick reminder about tomorrow?s AI coding workshop, on Zoom and in-person at Swinburne. Details below.

If anyone wants to preview some of the skills I?ll be discussing, have a look here:
https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/EYkpCmO5gluAw4GrpS3F8mhRtQ4k?domain=github.com

Thanks,
Darren


On 30 Jul 2026, at 3:44?pm, Darren Croton <dcroton at swin.edu.au> wrote:

Dear ASA members,

The next Coding with AI workshop will be run next Thursday, 6th August, from 2-3 pm, located in AMDC801 (Swinburne) and on Zoom (link below).

This time around, we?ll tackle some more advanced topics, including:


  *   Writing and using skills as a superpower
  *   When and where to delegate work to agents, both within the harness and externally to other harnesses
  *   Keeping track of your agent minions and ensuring quality and accuracy

This workshop is aimed at more experienced AI coding enthusiasts, and those just starting out and looking to up their game.

Zoom Link:
https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/dnNiCnx1jniK0BQYXCvHQqhJmmCI?domain=swinburne.zoom.us
Meeting ID: 756 407 223
Password: 059918

Past Workshops*:
Workshop 1: <https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/ln_LC81V0PTzV4xKXHnfgwhyiVEw?domain=dropbox.com> Introduction to coding with AI<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/ln_LC81V0PTzV4xKXHnfgwhyiVEw?domain=dropbox.com> (2026-07-02)
Workshop 2: <https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/LPOEC0YKPviMOPlLkt2iPzh90Hld?domain=dropbox.com> Coding with AI - building a project from scratch<https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/LPOEC0YKPviMOPlLkt2iPzh90Hld?domain=dropbox.com> (2026-07-16)

Looking forward to seeing you next Thursday!
Darren


*You may need to login to Dropbox to see the full recording.

?
Prof Darren Croton (he/him)
ARC Future Fellow

Centre for Astrophysics & Supercomputing
ARC Centre of Excellence for Dark Matter Particle Physics
Swinburne University of Technology

P: +61 39214 5537
E: dcroton at swin.edu.au
M: H74, PO Box 218, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia
W: https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/NJhyCoV1kpfBNWJ0Dc5Iq8hpJ9rF?domain=astronomy.swin.edu.au

I respectfully acknowledge the Wurundjeri People, and their Elders past, present, and emerging, who are the traditional custodians of the land on which Swinburne?s Australian campuses are located.




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