More than 100 public school teachers in New South Wales will soon gain access to a specialised professional development program aimed at strengthening STEM education, thanks to a new partnership between Transurban and Powerhouse Parramatta. With an investment of $195,000, the infrastructure giant is stepping in as the Learning Program Partner at the soon-to-open museum, ensuring educators in Western Sydney receive enhanced training and resources from 2026.
The initiative will offer a free two-day annual enrichment program for secondary school teachers in eight local government areas across Western Sydney. Participants will engage in workshops, hear from subject-matter experts, and connect with peers to refine their approach to STEM education. The program will work in tandem with Powerhouse’s existing immersive learning experiences and in-school initiatives under the Lang Walker Family Academy.
Powerhouse Parramatta, set to open in 2026, will be the first major cultural institution established in the city’s geographical centre. Designed to be a hub for STEM learning, the museum will house state-of-the-art education facilities, including accommodation for 56 students and their teachers attending three-day STEM camps.
Denise Kelly, Transurban’s General Manager for WestConnex, highlighted the company’s commitment to future-proofing STEM education. ‘Our partnership with Powerhouse reflects a shared vision to strengthen the future of STEM learning in Western Sydney. Supporting educators means supporting the students who will become the next generation of engineers and scientists. Infrastructure development relies on skilled workers, and that starts in the classroom.’
David Borger, President of the Powerhouse Trust, emphasised the broader impact of the investment. ‘This program will provide teachers with access to innovative teaching strategies, helping students sharpen their skills and stand out in an increasingly competitive field.’
Powerhouse Chief Executive Lisa Havilah echoed this sentiment, welcoming Transurban’s involvement. ‘Powerhouse is proud to partner with an industry leader that understands the importance of investing in local communities. The impact of this initiative will be felt in classrooms across the region.’
With STEM skills in high demand across multiple industries, the partnership between Transurban and Powerhouse Parramatta positions Western Sydney’s educators—and by extension, their students—on firmer ground in an evolving job market.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
