ASM is committed to making Australian microbiology a safe and fair place for microbiologists from all backgrounds to work and learn together. Join us for a free breakfast session to meet with other microbiologists to discuss the place of EDI in the changing global political and economic climate. This open discussion session will be facilitated by the EDI committee and invited speakers. We will also be joined by the newly formed ASM national LGBTQIA+ Network as they launch their new initiative to connect LGBTQIA+ microbiologists and their allies from across the country.

Founded in 2023, the ASM Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Committee is committed to fostering a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for microbiologists at all stages of their careers and from diverse backgrounds. The committee's work includes advising the National and State branches and championing initiatives that advance equity and diversity including:

• Career stage (students, early career, mid-career, and senior microbiologists)

• First Nations, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

• Gender equity

• Cultural and linguistic diversity

• Race and ethnicity

• National origin

• LGBTQIA+ microbiologists

• Disability and accessibility

• Neurodiversity