Natural Hazards STEM Support Program Grant Recipients
The NSW Government is pleased to announce the funding of two innovative projects under the Natural Hazards STEM Support Program, totalling $800,000.
The program aims to enhance STEM skills for K-12 students, inspire the next generation of innovators and technologists, ignite curiosity in technological domains, prepare students for natural hazards management, and build community resilience and awareness.
Project 1:
Fresh AIR Innovators, UNSW Sydney
Grant: $397,000
The Fresh AIR Innovators program has been awarded a $397,400 grant, with an additional $129,400 in-kind and cash contribution, including $45,000 from the Dyson Foundation.
This initiative enhances STEM education for upper-level primary students in NSW, focusing on critical technologies for bushfire management and indoor air quality.
Through a four-week curriculum, students gain hands-on experience with renewable energy solutions and traditional Indigenous practices. Activities include building low-cost sensors to monitor indoor air pollutants, constructing HEPA filters, exploring traditional fire management techniques through 'DeadlyScience' cultural burning modules and developing entrepreneurial skills with 'Energy Lab' incubator support.
This program, leveraging the partnership between UNSW Sydney and the NSW Department of Education, aims to bridge theoretical learning and practical application, motivate young technologists and strengthen community resilience.
Project 2:
The Greater Sydney Heatwave Resilience and Adaptation project, Powerhouse
Grant: $400,000
The Greater Sydney Heatwave Resilience and Adaptation project has been granted $400,000, with an additional $331,000 in-kind and actual contribution.
Aimed at Year 9 and 10 students, this long-term interdisciplinary program addresses heatwaves and the Urban Heat Island Effect, designed in collaboration with leading researchers, creatives and educators.
The project facilitates student-developed community projects on heatwave adaptation and practical experiences with technology. The program will involve teachers and students and their communities, using real-world problem-solving to enhance resource quality and build community resilience.