CSIRO launches A.I. month

The CSIRO’s National A.I. Centre (NAIC) has launched Australia’s first artificial intelligence month, comprising a series of events and forums to help shape the country’s A.I. future.

Run from November 15 to December 15, the initiative aims to bring together A.I. organisations, entrepreneurs and researchers over more than 50 free and ticketed A.I.-related events.

Federal Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic officially opened a new AI exhibition at Questacon, Australia’s National Science and Technology Centre.

“I’m looking forward to celebrating excellence and innovation in Australian AI during our first AI month,” Husic said.

“The Albanese Government is committed to positioning Australia as a leader in developing and adopting trusted, secure and responsible artificial intelligence.

“AI presents a huge opportunity to boost productivity, but we must help make sure the design, development and deployment of AI technologies is safe and responsible.

Husic also announced that CSIRO’s data and digital arm, Data61, will join forces with the University of Queensland (UQ). Swinburne, UNSW, Curtin and ANU as part of the $18 million Tech4HSE program, whcih will commission research in generative and immersive AI, augmented reality and cybersecurity, to develop tech to aid those working in dangerous environments.

National A.I. Centre Director Stela Solar added that the month-long initiative is central to the NAIC’s mission to pave the way for a responsible and inclusive A.I. future for Australia.

“The rapid advancements in AI this year have emphasised the need for Australia to seize the A.I. opportunity and accelerate its global competitiveness,” Solar said.

“This month we are encouraging everyone to join in the important conversations to make the A.I. opportunity real. Together we can shape a responsible and inclusive A.I. future for Australia.”

“A.I. Month is a moment to learn new things, sharpen your skills, and step into new opportunities the future.”

The NAIC was launched in December 2021, and is part of CSIRO’s digital and data division, Data61.

Its goal is to lift the nation’s competitiveness in AI and ability to attract international investment and specialists.