2026 AIP Physics in Industry Forum
Physics in Government
Thursday 12th November 2026
CSIRO Lindfield - Lehany Theatre
36 Bradfield Road, Lindfield, NSW 2070
*** scroll to the bottom of this page for travel and parking information ***
Our Topic in 2026 - Physics in Government
The 2026 Physics in Industry Day shines a spotlight on the vital yet often overlooked role physicists play in government and public services, exploring how scientific expertise shapes policy, strengthens national capability and supports the community. Through sessions on Australia’s policy landscape, real‑world career pathways inside the public service, and the power of science advocacy, attendees will hear from leaders including former Chief Scientist Dr Cathy Foley AM and discover how physicists can influence decisions, address emerging needs in areas like quantum and nuclear, and engage effectively in political and public discourse. Designed as an accessible, thought‑provoking event for researchers, industry, educators and the public, this year’s program invites you to rethink the impact physicists can have beyond the lab—and within the nation’s most important institutions.Session 1: The Policy and Public Service Landscape
Our opening session will explore how the nation is governed (Federal and State/Territory) in relation to the development of policies, influence, and delivering services to the community. Two invited speakers will describe government structures in Australia and how science and scientists interact and participate with them.
Dr Cathy Foley AM served as CSIRO's Chief Scientist and, more recently, as Australia's Chief Scientist - and is perfectly placed to describe how decisions are made and expand on how a researcher can tread a career path from the laboratory through to advising government and the Prime Minister on science matters.
Session 2: Scientists Inside the Service
Our speakers will cover the numerous ways that physicists participate in government and public services - particularly in the influence, advisory and policy functions rather than the undertaking of research.
What areas need physicists but there are not enough such as quantum or nuclear.
An under promoted career for a scientist - what are the opportunities of selecting this career path, what options are available and what impacts might you have?
Session 3: Engaging with the System
In contrast to the previous session on science supporting community, this session delves into engagement in the "political" landscape to promote science, bring science-based issues into public discourse and to uplift recognition of science as a critical national capability. We'll look at how science communities and their representatives organise, operate and influence and we'll also hear from scientists who are politically active with aspirations of becoming elected members.
About the Physics in Industry Day:
The annual Physics in Industry Days has been an initiative to bring together researchers, industry, service providers, decision makers, educators and the general public to connect and learn around a chosen topic - either an industry sector or an area of science with significant industrial or national impact in the future. It is intended to be an informal gathering with interesting and informative speakers pitched at a level to engage with an informed general audience.
REGISTRATIONS FOR THIS EVENT ARE CLOSED
| Time | Program |
| 8:40 - 9:00 | Arrival, registration |
| 9:02 |
Welcome and introduction by Scott Martin |
| 9:15 - 10:30 |
Session 1: The Policy and Public Service Landscape Session Chair: Scott Martin (CSIRO & AIP) Invited Speakers: 1. Dr Cathy Foley AM 2. Dr Jack Steele - Executive Project Manager, CSIRO Government Engagement Q&A with the speakers |
| 10:30 - 11:00 | Morning tea |
| 11:00 - 12:30 |
Session 2: Scientists Inside the Service Session Chair: Dr Katja Digweed - CSIRO Technology - Research Unit Director Invited Speakers: 1. Dr Victoria Coleman - Australia's Chief Metrologist - National Measurement Institute 2. Rod Dowler, National Education and Engagement Manager, ANSTO 3. To be announced Q&A panel |
| 12:30 - 2:00 | Lunch and laboratory and site tours |
| 2:00 - 3:30 |
Session 3: Engaging with the System Session Chair: Dr Marilena Salvo - CSIRO Space & Astronomy - Executive Officer Invited Speakers: 1. Dr Sarah Tynan - Director of Policy and Engagement, Science and Technology Australia 2. Dr Karen Livesey - NSW Chair Australian Institute of Physics 3. John August - Past election candidate and community radio broadcaster Q&A panel |
| 3:30 - 4:00 | Conclusion and afternoon tea |
The AIP gratefully acknowledges the event sponsors and supporters:
Getting There and Site Information |
Getting to site via public transport:
The best way is to travel to Lindfield by train and then take the 565 bus route to CSIRO: Chatswood to Macquarie University | transportnsw.info. Then make your way by foot to the Foyer Entrance as depicted below.
Travelling to site by car/motorcycle/bicycle/e-bike:
There is plenty of free parking on site. HOWEVER, it is paramount that sufficient clearance is maintained for emergency vehicles.
Referring to the map below - the GREEN areas are OK for event parking, but RED areas are not. Visitors may also park in the staff carparks (but not the central courtyard which is for official vehicles only).
Contact Details
The Industry Days are organised by Scott Martin. We gratefully welcome recommendations for future topics or offers of participation as a speaker, panellist, sponsor or exhibitor.
CONTACT INFORMATION PO Box 73 Parkville VIC 3052 |
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
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