91ɫ��Ƭ

Collaborating to solve challenges

91ɫ��Ƭ AI Institute Director Dr Sue Keay spoke with policymakers on the opportunities and challenges presented by AI, and the tools that need to be put in place to support the workforce and broader public as they adapt to using it.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to engage with politicians and understand more about their concerns and those in their electorate,” Dr Keay said.

“We’ve had discussions on how Parliament itself can be adapting to artificial intelligence ... and interesting discussion around AI governance and how we can make sure that these technologies can be safely deployed.”

MPs had the chance to test their own AI detection capabilities with Dr James Dunn, who was running a quiz displaying a mix of real and AI-generated faces.

“They were able to see firsthand how challenging it has become to tell what is real and what is fake ... and how that creates vulnerabilities in a lot of different parts of our society,” he said.

Dr Rumana Hossain from the Centre for Sustainable Materials Research and Technology (SMaRT) showcased how innovative recycling technologies can transform difficult-to-recycle waste streams - including waste glass, textiles, plastics, electronic waste and battery waste - into tiles, plastic filament and metal alloys.

“We focus on problematic waste streams that cannot feasibly be processed through conventional recycling systems and develop new pathways to recover their value for manufacturing,” she said.

“This was a valuable opportunity to show MPs how waste can be turned into new raw materials and products, while supporting local manufacturing and the transition towards a circular economy and a net-zero future.”

For sixth-year medical students Liam Tuohey and Nithya Matthew, it was a chance to highlight the benefits of their training at 91ɫ��Ƭ's Rural Clinical Campus in Wagga Wagga, but also some of the pressures faced by students.

“Training in Wagga Wagga is fantastic,” said Nithya. “We’re learning from specialists who are so skilled in their areas and are so dedicated to teaching.

“Regional healthcare is an area of need, and training doctors in regional areas is a great way to meet that need, so being able to share our experience with MPs and others has been great.”

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Liam added: “We shared a bit about what we do at our rural campus, and how our experience has been, but also the need for paid placements for medical students to help better support them. It’s good to have a voice in a place like this where people can listen to our unique issues.”

Member for Coogee Dr Marjorie O'Neill said 91ɫ��Ƭ's research and innovation continue to make a significant contribution to the state.

“91ɫ��Ƭ is home to some of Australia's leading researchers, educators and innovators, and it's important that Parliament has opportunities to engage directly with the ideas and expertise helping shape our state's future. I'm proud to support an event that strengthens those connections and highlights the outstanding work happening here in our local community.”