SQA Chief Operating Officer named among Australia’s newest Superstars of STEM

We are thrilled to announce that our Chief Operating Officer, Dr Rebecca Halligan, has been named one of Australia’s 60 Superstars of STEM for the 2025–2026 cohort, announced by the Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic MP.  

The Superstars of STEM program, run by Science and Technology Australia and funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Industry, Science and Resources, has already empowered 210 women and non-binary STEM experts.  

With the new cohort, the program will expand to 270 Superstars, equipping participants with the tools, training, and confidence to shine in media, on stage, with decision-makers and inspire the next generation of STEM talent. 

Superstars of Stem alumni have already inspired more than 85,000 high school students across 750 schools in metropolitan and regional Australia, including over 80 visits to regional and remote schools by the most recent cohort. 

" It’s hard to be what you can’t see,” said Rebecca. “Women are still under-represented in STEM leadership roles.” 

Rebecca has long been passionate about inspiring young people to pursue STEM careers. In the photo (on right), she’s at a veterinary camp, engaging with students and sharing her expertise. By connecting with the next generation in such hands-on ways, Rebecca has helped to spark curiosity and demonstrate the exciting opportunities that STEM fields offer.

“A STEM degree isn’t a one-way ticket to a single path - the skills you gain can take you places you never thought possible. Women in STEM have the power to redefine the future," said added.  

Rebecca’s journey is proof that you don’t need to wait for permission to make a difference — you just need to go for it. And that’s exactly what she’s doing. 

Since its inception in 2017, the Superstars of STEM initiative has addressed the gender imbalance in visible STEM role models, particularly in the media. By empowering participants to share their expertise confidently, the program challenges stereotypes and reshapes perceptions of who can excel in STEM. 

As part of the 2025–2026 cohort, Rebecca will join a dynamic group of professionals contributing to critical STEM discussions, reaching broad audiences through media, and inspiring thousands of students with their stories. 

To learn more about the Superstars of STEM program and meet the 2025–2026 cohort, visit Science & Technology Australia’s website. 

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