National Science Week -- August 15-23, 2009. (January 27, 2009)

This year, National Science Week will be held from 15-23 August and the federal government has allocated $500,000 to 40 projects submitted from all states, the ACT and the Northern Territory.

The Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, Kim Carr said: "The 40 events announced today are only the tip of the iceberg. They will be complemented by further funding for science projects in schools, a tour by international speakers and over 800 separate public events."

Senator Carr went on to say: "I am encouraged by the number of indigenous projects in 2009. These include exploration of the interactions between Astronomy and Aboriginal lore, and between traditional approaches to bush food and modern science.", and made the point, "National Science Week will be accessible for even our most remote communities through national tours, special televised programs, movies and online events."

The minister emphasised that National Science Week will highlight "some of the most pressing issues for all Australians, the future of our environment, our economy and our wellbeing".

For a description of the projects gaining financial support from Senator Carr's Department go to https://grants.innovation.gov.au/SCOPE/Pages/Grants.aspx.

In all there were 107 submission requesting a total of over $1.75 million.