One of Australia's leading AI expert is coming to Wollongong for a free breakfast briefing
Here’s how to get a ticket.
Businesses, government agencies and community organisations are being urged to get ahead of the AI curve, with a free AI Briefing Breakfast set to explore how leaders can harness the technology’s potential while managing its growing risks.
Wombarra-based AI expert Bill Simpson-Young, CEO and co-founder of Gradient Institute, will headline the event on Wednesday, July 15, hosted by Regional Development Australia (RDA) Illawarra Shoalhaven in partnership with The Pulse Illawarra.
The event comes as organisations explore a new generation of AI tools capable of performing increasingly sophisticated tasks, raising important questions around governance, accountability and risk.
Simpson-Young has spent decades working at the forefront of artificial intelligence, advising governments, shaping national AI policy and helping organisations understand how to adopt the technology safely.
He currently serves on the NSW Government’s AI Review Committee and previously advised the Federal Government on AI regulation.
“Artificial intelligence is developing at an extraordinary pace and many organisations are trying to work out what it means for them,” Simpson-Young said.
“The opportunities are significant, but so are the risks. The key is understanding how to use these technologies in a way that delivers value while maintaining appropriate oversight and governance.”
Simpson-Young co-founded Gradient Institute in 2019 after becoming concerned about the way AI technologies were being adopted without a clear understanding of their limitations and risks.
Today, the independent not-for-profit research organisation is recognised as one of Australia’s leading voices on responsible AI and helped develop the Federal Government’s Guidance for AI Adoption framework.
The breakfast briefing will explore how organisations can use AI to improve productivity and decision-making while avoiding unintended consequences and maintaining public trust.
RDA Illawarra Shoalhaven CEO Selena Stevens said the session would provide local leaders with practical insights at a time when AI was reshaping industries around the world.
“Artificial intelligence is no longer a future issue – it’s already changing the way organisations operate, compete and deliver services,” Ms Stevens said.
“We’re delighted to have someone of Bill’s calibre to the Illawarra to share his expertise and help local leaders better understand both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with adopting AI.”
The AI Briefing Breakfast will be held at the iAccelerate Presentation Room at the University of Wollongong Innovation Campus on Wednesday, July 15.
Guests are invited to arrive from 7.30am for breakfast, with the briefing commencing at 8am.
Attendance is free; however, places are limited. Bookings are essential.
For registrations visit:https://events.humanitix.com/ai-breakfast