All interested secondary school students and university undergraduates are invited to join Bush Heritage Australia's online event in the lead up to National Science Week 2025 - Environmental Science Careers for Change.

This virtual event offers the opportunity for students to connect with, learn from and be inspired by professionals in the fields of environmental science and conservation.

Individual students are welcome to register, along with schools who may like to bring a group together or join the event as a class.

Download the event information booklet for more details.

Event timesI

11.30 am - 12.30 pm - VIC, NSW, ACT, TAS, QLD
11.00 am - 12.00 pm - SA, NT
9.30 am - 10.30 am - WA

Bush Heritage Presenters

Ben is from Kalbarri, a small town in the mid-west of WA situated on the bank of the Murchison River, which is surrounded by national park. Growing up there he developed a deep passion for the outdoors and the natural environments. He followed his passion and studied Environmental Science and Botany at UWA and completed honours in Fire Ecology. After spending time away and travelling overseas, he returned to work in conservation in the Otways forests in Victoria with the Conservation Ecology Centre, before taking up the role as Reserve Manager at Bush Heritage’s Eurardy Reserve in WA.

Sophie is the Project Manager for Culturally Relevant Climate Adaptations at Bush Heritage Australia, bringing over a decade of hands-on experience in Indigenous land and sea management across regions including East Kimberley, West Arnhem, and Cape York Peninsula. With a background in anthropology and a Master’s in Development Practice, Sophie has worked closely with Aboriginal corporations to support Indigenous Protected Area development, ranger operations, and community-led conservation planning. Her career spans roles as a ranger coordinator, IPA coordinator, reserve officer, and environmental consultant, underpinned by research in Indigenous environmental management, native title, and climate resilience. Sophie is deeply committed to centring culture and community in environmental stewardship and climate adaptation strategies.

Caleb is a Field Ecologist and intern with Bush Heritage, whose conservation journey began with a Zoology degree at La Trobe University and a strong commitment to volunteering. From working at an orangutan rehabilitation centre in Borneo to conducting wildlife surveys across Australia, he’s gained a wealth of experience—often through challenging, underpaid, and unpredictable work. His passion for protecting nature, grounded in science and culture, led him to Bush Heritage, where he now contributes through the Seeding the Future internship program. Caleb encourages aspiring conservationists to “get involved however you can—once you're in, people want to help.”

Host

Michelle has worked at Bush Heritage for ten years and heads our Seeding the Future program to develop new and inspiring opportunities for those looking to build a career within the conservation sector. Michelle was previously our National Volunteer Program Coordinator and is passionate about supporting young people in careers that they love and giving people a platform to experience connection and collaboration through conservation.

Why Environmental Science?

The increasing awareness of environmental issues, coupled with the need for professionals to address them, is driving the demand for environmental scientists. Governments and private companies are investing in environmental protection and sustainability, leading to more job opportunities in this field. Jobs and Skills Australia projects a strong growth in employment for environmental scientists, with the number of positions expected to increase by nearly 8% by 2028.

The multidisciplinary nature of environmental science also offers great career progression and lateral movement between industries and contributes to a long and fulfilling career with boundless opportunities for growth and change.

Careers in Environmental Science significantly contribute to protecting the planet and promoting sustainable practices. By researching, advising, and implementing solutions, these professionals help manage natural resources, mitigate environmental damage, and ensure a healthier future for all.

Bush Heritage acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the places in which we live and work. We recognise and respect the enduring relationships they have with their lands and waters, and we pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.