Queensland bucks national trend as STEM enrolments rise

While the latest national figures show a decline

While the latest national figures show a decline in senior secondary STEM participation, Queensland is moving in the opposite direction, with a growing number of students opting for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics courses.

Nationally, the number of Year 12 students enrolled in STEM subjects fell to 376,000 in 2024, reflecting a broader downward trend across Australian schools. However, Queensland’s enrolment numbers have climbed, suggesting a localised shift in student interest and subject choices.

Education analysts attribute the Sunshine State’s uptick to targeted school programs, increased teacher support in STEM fields, and greater awareness of career pathways in industries such as renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and digital technology. Several schools have also expanded their subject offerings, making these courses more accessible.

The rise in Queensland contrasts with the national

The rise in Queensland contrasts with the national picture, raising questions about what factors are driving the divergence. Some experts point to the state’s strong economic growth in tech-driven sectors, which may be influencing students’ decisions to pursue skills aligned with future job markets.

Despite the positive local trend, educators caution that more work is needed to ensure equity, particularly for students in regional and remote areas. They argue that sustained investment in infrastructure and teacher training will be crucial to maintaining and expanding STEM participation across the state.

As national policymakers debate ways to reverse the decline, Queensland’s experience offers a potential model for other regions. The coming years will reveal whether this momentum can be sustained, and what lessons can be drawn from the state’s success.