skip to main content

Jobs in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are growing twice as fast as non-STEM occupations.

Research shows we need to reach students by age 15 to influence their long term participation in STEM.

The Australian STEM Video Game Challenge seeks to:

ENGAGE students in STEM subjects

ENABLE students to develop real-world skills

EMPOWER more students to choose STEM careers.

Teams of 1-4 students design and develop a video game based on a given theme

Team mentors support students with curriculum-aligned resources

Entries are judged by teachers and industry experts

Winning entries are showcased at the Penny Arcade Expo (PAX) held in Melbourne

The 2025 challenge

2025 theme

Journey

This year we want you to take us on a 'journey' in your game.

Important dates for the 2025 challenge

Team registrations:

11 October 2024 (8am AEST) - 19 June 2025 (7pm AEST)

Submissions:

20 June (8am AEST) - 23 July 2025 (7pm AEST)

Winners announced:

8 September 2025

Challenge information

Teaching resources

We want to make it easy for you to get involved in the Challenge!

We have designed teacher resources to guide you through all the essential components of creating a submission with a 10-week unit plan, lesson plans and activities.

The secondary student resources are designed to support students working autonomously and follow a similar design to the secondary teacher resources.

Primary teachers Secondary teachers Secondary students

Prizes for winners

A custom hoodie featuring artwork from your game

3-day pass to PAX Aus in Melbourne where the winning games will be on display.

Opportunities to engage online and in person at STEM and gaming events.

Winner’s showcase at PAX Aus

Each year, the winning games are featured in an interactive display at PAX Aus

PAX Aus is one of the southern hemisphere’s largest games and interactive entertainment exhibitions. Taking place in Melbourne in early October, the event provides a fantastic opportunity for our winners to showcase their games to the public.

Finalists and winners may also be invited to attend conferences in their home state to showcase their games and promote the Australian STEM Video Game Challenge.

2024 Winners

Take a look at winning entries to inspire your team and learn about the challenge.

Supported by