Creating a legacy of learning for future students

By the Editorial Team · Friday, August 28, 2026

The Lang Walker Family Foundation has donated $20 million to establish the Lang Walker Academy at the new Powerhouse Parramatta museum, providing immersive STEM learning experiences for students. This initiative aims to engage around 10,000 students annually, especially those from regional and western Sydney, by offering direct interaction with global STEM leaders to inspire future career opportunities.

The Lang Walker Family Foundation has committed $20 million to support the establishment of the Lang Walker Academy, an educational initiative set to become a key feature of the upcoming Powerhouse Parramatta museum. Scheduled to open later this year, the museum aims to provide students with enhanced access to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) learning opportunities.

Powerhouse CEO Lisa Havilah highlighted the significance of the donation in enabling the launch of the Academy’s immersive program. The initiative offers students a three-day, two-night residential experience at the museum, providing unique access beyond typical museum visits. Participants will have the opportunity to engage directly with global STEM leaders, including astronauts, technologists, and engineers.

Havilah emphasized the collaboration between the Powerhouse Parramatta, the Lang Walker Family Foundation, and the Department of Education as critical to the program’s development and potential long-term impact. She noted that the initiative is designed particularly to benefit students from regional and western Sydney by offering hands-on learning experiences and exposure to professionals in scientific and technological fields.

The program aims to inspire students to consider a broader range of future career possibilities by connecting real-world STEM applications with educational pathways. Havilah expressed hope that these interactions will encourage young people to envision new opportunities beyond their everyday environments.

“Providing these immersive learning experiences to approximately 10,000 students annually is intended to expand their horizons and foster meaningful engagement with STEM disciplines,” Havilah said. She also reflected on the importance of life experiences outside traditional classroom settings in shaping personal growth and learning.

By integrating residential learning within the museum environment and facilitating direct contact with STEM experts, the Lang Walker Academy seeks to create a lasting educational legacy, contributing to the development of future generations equipped with the skills and inspiration to succeed in rapidly evolving technological fields.

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