Inspiring Aussie kids: our future tech innovators and entrepreneurs.
We invest in STEM resources for primary school students.
Our future economic prosperity starts in today’s classrooms.
Every child deserves the chance to explore, create and problem-solve with STEM resources (STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).
But right now, many public schools in Australia struggle to provide hands-on STEM learning — because they lack the technology to teach a practical curriculum.
Why STEM Matters.
Innovative, STEM-focused economies lead the world in productivity and prosperity. Australia risks falling behind if we don’t transition to a cleaner, smarter, technologically savvy workforce. There is growing demand for tech, engineering and scientific skills that our education system isn’t delivering. The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences & Engineering warns that Australia risks a shortfall of 200,000 STEM-skilled workers by 2030 if action isn’t taken now (ATSE, 2023).
While student interest in STEM careers is rising (year 12 STEM enrolments are increasing, with some subjects approaching gender parity) there is still a mismatch between demand and opportunity, especially for students attending lower socio-economic schools. Without resources like robotics kits, 3D printers and world’s best practice training for educators, student curiosity can’t be cultivated — and our nation loses the catalyst to create the future innovators we desperately need.
According to the Commonwealth Education Department, Australian school students’ science and maths results are declining or stagnating, and Australia is slipping down the international ranking tables as other countries improve.
A brighter future for our kids.
At Gardenvale Primary School, a $30,000 investment in Tom’s memory transformed a STEM classroom and the entire curriculum. The school was able to purchase robotics, science equipment and a 3D printer, along with purpose-built furniture and storage. Now all 800 children across the entire school are learning via the latest STEM resources, sparking their imagination and interest in future STEM careers.
The Tom Ashmor Foundation honours Tom’s legacy as a technologist, entrepreneur, mentor and family man. Our mission is simple: to give Australian public schools the tools they need to ignite imagination and innovation in every student, so they can pursue their STEM dreams just like Tom did.
Seed funding from Tom’s own journey has made the first projects possible. Now we’re inviting others — individuals, families, and organisations — to join us in building a cleaner, smarter and stronger nation.
It all starts with igniting a child’s interest in STEM.
A legacy of curiosity, generosity, and innovation.
Ready to make a difference?
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Donate today to put practical STEM tools into classrooms. Donate Here >
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Nominate a school you think deserves our support. By going here >
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For more information on how to nominate a school for the programme. download our EOI Pack here.