Canberra Meetings

Last week, Larissa engaged in a series of high-value meetings in Canberra alongside attending Science Meets Parliament 2026, hosted by Science & Technology Australia.

In addition to the formal program, Riss met with key stakeholders across Parliament House, including the offices of Minister Ayres and Assistant Minister Charlton. These discussions focused on the national opportunity presented by an ESA collaboration and the growing base of support from industry, academia and the community.

Thanks to David Penberthy and FIVEAA for the opportunity to talk about the campaign’s momentum and the opportunity for organisations to contribute to the emerging co-contribution fund.

This year’s Science Meets Parliament was particularly timely, coinciding with the release of the Ambitious Australia report and Minister Ayers’ address at the National Press Club on “Smarter, Stronger, Safer: A Future Made in Australia backed by R&D”.

In a special moment, Australia’s Governor-General Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC welcomed the cohort of 400 scientists to Australian Parliament House with a warm nod to Katherine Bennell-Pegg, recognising her as a figure capable of inspiring the nation.