The 2026 FIRST Robotics Competition Southern Cross Regional was an outstanding demonstration of what is possible when young people are empowered with the right tools, support, and opportunities to thrive.

 

Across the three-day event, we saw students not only build and compete with complex robotics systems, but also develop the critical skills that will shape their futures. The data captured in this report highlights the depth of that impact: 92% of students reported improvements in technical skills, 94% in teamwork and collaboration, and 86% expressed increased interest in pursuing a career in STEM. These are not just statistics; they represent real shifts in confidence, capability, and aspiration.

 

Beyond the numbers, what stood out most was the energy, resilience, and sense of community present throughout the event. Students spoke of increased confidence, stronger connections with peers, and a newfound belief in their ability to pursue ambitious pathways. Mentors and volunteers also reported significant professional and personal growth, reinforcing the powerful, two-way impact of the FIRST experience.

 

Importantly, the success of this event is a direct result of the collective effort of our partners, sponsors, volunteers, educators, and the broader FIRST community. With 96% of participants indicating they would recommend the program and 92% rating the organisation of the event as good to excellent, it is clear that we are not only delivering high-quality experiences, but creating something truly meaningful for all involved.

 

As we look ahead, our focus remains on expanding access, deepening impact, and continuing to build strong partnerships that enable more young people to engage with STEM in authentic and inspiring ways. Events like the Southern Cross Regional are not just competitions, they are platforms for discovery, growth, and the future of Australia’s STEM workforce.

 

Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event such a success.

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Will de Lima

Manager, FIRST Australia

Macquarie University Faculty of Science and Engineering