WA Robotics Playoffs

Real-World STEM

Innovation Challenge

Teams of 2–10 students investigate a real-life primary industries problem and present their solution — exploring the intersection of STEM and industry to benefit their community.

How it works

01

Form a team

2–10 students per team. A school may enter multiple teams, but each must submit a unique solution.

02

Solve a challenge

Choose from a set of real primary-industries challenges, with free mentoring support from Murdoch University's STEM Outreach team.

03

Present & win

Deliver a 5-minute presentation and Q&A to a judging panel. Prizes go toward STEM equipment for your school.

The details

  • Teams of 2–10 students. A school may enter multiple teams, but each must submit a unique solution.
  • Challenges are released around 12 weeks before competition day, with registrations closing around 4 weeks out.
  • Free mentoring and research support is available through Murdoch University's STEM Outreach team.
  • Teams choose one challenge from a shortlist released each season — see past examples below.
  • Teams prepare a 5-minute presentation plus a 5-minute Q&A for the judging panel on competition day. In-person is encouraged, but remote teams may present via video link.
  • Prizes are awarded for 1st ($1,500), 2nd ($1,000), and 3rd ($500) place, to be spent on STEM equipment for your school (proof of purchase required).
  • Exact competition and presentation times are emailed to registered teams around 2 weeks out.

Past challenge examples

Each season's challenges are drawn from real problems facing WA's primary industries. Here's what past teams have tackled:

01

Rethinking AI for Weed Management

Using AI and imaging to identify and manage weeds in broadacre cropping.

02

Bird Deterrence in Vineyards

Protecting vineyard crops from bird damage without harming local wildlife.

03

Carbon & Seafood

Assessing the carbon and environmental impact of WA's seafood industry.

Start an Innovation Challenge team

The Innovation Challenge is run in partnership with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD). For registration and enquiries, contact their team directly.

Email agric_education@dpird.wa.gov.au