Fireside chat - The inside scoop on media, your surest way to reach the ear of the Minister
| Wednesday, November 26, 2025 |
| 8:30 AM - 8:50 AM |
| Hall C (Main Plenary) |
Speaker
Ms Jaana Dielenberg
Biodiversity Council
The inside scoop on media, your surest way to reach the ear of the minister
Abstract document
Conservation scientists can achieve far greater impact when their work reaches the public, governments and ministers through the media. In this lively chat, science journalist and editor Clare Peddie and Biodiversity Council Science Communication Director Jaana Dielenberg share lessons from years working across newsrooms, research and conservation. They’ll discuss why scientists should lean into media engagement, the risks — and how to navigate them. Learn what makes a good story, how newsroom decisions are made, and how to craft a pitch that lands. The speakers will share tips for succeeding in print, radio and TV, and why strong visuals matter. With biodiversity in steep decline, they’ll explore how to balance urgency with hope—and where to start if you want to share your science more widely.
Biography
Jaana Dielenberg is the Biodiversity Council’s Science Communication Director. She helps scientists and Indigenous Knowledge holders to communicate effectively with policymakers and the public to build support for solutions to Australia’s biodiversity crisis. Jaana generates thousands of media stories each year linking research, policy and public action for nature and also has extensive experience as a media spokesperson. Jaana has 15 years’ experience leading research impact, communication and engagement programs for national biodiversity programs.
Katie Smith
Wildlife Crime Research Hub, University of Adelaide
The inside scoop on media, your surest way to reach the ear of the minister
Biography
Katie Smith is Manager of the Wildlife Crime Research Hub, combining expertise in ecology, communication and policy to drive collaboration, awareness and innovative, science-based solutions to wildlife crime
Ms Clare Peddie
Science Journalist
The inside scoop on media, your surest way to reach the ear of the minister
8:30 AM - 8:50 AMAbstract document
Conservation scientists can achieve far greater impact when their work reaches the public, governments and ministers through the media. In this lively chat, science journalist and editor Clare Peddie and Biodiversity Council Science Communication Director Jaana Dielenberg share lessons from years working across newsrooms, research and conservation. They’ll discuss why scientists should lean into media engagement, the risks — and how to navigate them. Learn what makes a good story, how newsroom decisions are made, and how to craft a pitch that lands. The speakers will share tips for succeeding in print, radio and TV, and why strong visuals matter. With biodiversity in steep decline, they’ll explore how to balance urgency with hope—and where to start if you want to share your science more widely.
Biography
Clare Peddie is a science journalist with 25 years’ experience in communications and media. Former environment and energy deputy editor at The Conversation, she also spent 15 years in the newsroom at The Advertiser. Before that, she worked in communications at CSIRO Land and Water, UniSA, and the Queensland Institute of Medical Research. Clare is passionate about connecting people with nature, sharing science by stealth, and finding hope amid the doom and gloom.
