It’s time to grab your magnifying glass and rubber gloves; the Australian Federal Police are taking over Questacon

Posted on 13 August, 2024

If the idea of matching fingerprints, examining crime scenes, and learning about digital forensics gets you as excited as a new NCIS Sydney episode, this event is for you.

Taking place on Saturday 17 August, as part of National Science Week, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) will be taking over Questacon to provide some insight into what it’s really like to work as a forensics or STEM expert.

Running from 9 am until 5 pm for one day only, the AFP Takeover will offer families, kids, and adults the opportunity to learn about the science behind police work and its importance in keeping the community safe.

And from hands-on activities to live demonstrations as well as the chance to ask some nitty gritty questions, it’s your chance to try your hand at solving some crime. But don’t expect any cliches (apart from always needing rubber gloves. Those are important).

According to AFP Chief Scientist Dr Simon Walsh, there’s a lot more science involved in police work than meets the eye.

“People have an understanding of the science and technology through crime shows and what is portrayed in the media, however, this is only the tip of the iceberg,” he says.

“There is so much more depth and breadth to Forensic Science and as the technology and criminal threat evolves, our capabilities also must evolve to be able to respond to those threats.”

Allowing the visitors to explore firsthand how forensics techniques are used to solve crimes through hands-on activities, Dr Walsh says that anyone with an interest in STEM and forensics will benefit from attending the day.

Fun and educational, it’s ideal for all ages and might just lead you down a career path you’ve never considered before.

“The events provide a unique opportunity for young people to explore scientific and technological fields hands-on, potentially sparking a lifelong passion for these disciplines,” he says,

“Families, children, and adults alike will be able to team up with AFP STEM experts, who’ll provide an insight into what it’s like to work as a forensic or STEM expert with the AFP.”

“Our specialist forensic staff are incredibly passionate and committed and provide a great first-hand understanding of what a career in science is like,” says Dr Walsh.

That’s just the beginning of the day.

Mini detectives will also receive a special ‘Junior Forensic Investigator report card’ and will complete activities as they navigate their way around Questacon and learn about the science behind solving a crime. If that’s not enough to keep the kids entertained, there will also be the chance to meet Constable Kenny Koala who will be on-hand to answer questions and educate them about how to ‘Stay OK’.

“We are always looking to encourage careers in science and the AFP is a big organisation that applies science and technology across several different commands, allowing people to potentially have more than one career pathway within one organisation.”

Ready to learn about a career in science and technology with the AFP and try your hand at becoming a forensic science or technical intelligence expert? All AFP Takeover activities are included with admission to Questacon.

It’ll be an arrestingly good time.