About us

# About AI & Society

## AI is transforming society — but the conversation must include everyone.

AI & Society is a national community exploring how artificial intelligence is shaping our lives, work, cities and institutions.
We bring together people from technology and non-technology backgrounds to learn together, share perspectives, and understand how AI is changing society.
AI will influence the decisions we make in our careers, businesses and communities — and increasingly the policies that shape our future.
We believe people should be informed, curious and engaged citizens in the age of AI.
AI is global and increasingly centralised — but its impacts are experienced locally.
Every community has its own industries, cultures, priorities and histories.
The conversations about AI in Brisbane are different to those in Parramatta, Melbourne or Adelaide — and those differences matter.
AI & Society exists to make sure every community has a voice in shaping the AI future.

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## Our Mission

To help people understand and shape the role of AI in society through inclusive civic dialogue, interdisciplinary learning, and community-led exploration.
We aim to ensure that the future of AI is shaped not only by technologists, but by the communities it affects.

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## Our Beliefs

### 1. AI literacy is a civic skill

Understanding AI is becoming essential for making informed decisions — as workers, leaders and citizens.
AI literacy helps people:
• Navigate career change
• Make better decisions
• Understand policy debates
• Participate in democracy

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### 2. The AI conversation must be inclusive

AI affects everyone — not just technologists.
We bring together:
• Engineers
• Business leaders
• Students
• Policymakers
• Creatives
• Educators
• Community members
Better decisions happen when multiple disciplines and perspectives come together.

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### 3. Civic debate matters

AI inspires optimism, concern and uncertainty.
We believe healthy societies need space for:
• Optimism
• Scepticism
• Critical thinking
• Pragmatism
Our events encourage open and respectful discussion across viewpoints.

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### 4. Every place has a voice

AI is built globally but experienced locally.
Different communities have:
• Different industries
• Different demographics
• Different cultures
• Different economic challenges
• Different opportunities
After hosting events across Australia, we have seen how each region brings a unique perspective on AI.
These local perspectives are essential for shaping good policy and responsible innovation.

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### A National Conversation

AI & Society is building a national conversation about artificial intelligence.
We currently host events across six Australian regions:

Brisbane
Sydney
Parramatta (Western Sydney)
Melbourne
Adelaide
Perth

Every region brings a different perspective on AI.
Different industries, cultures, and communities experience AI differently — and these perspectives matter.
We are continuing to expand.
If you would like AI & Society to visit your city or region, please get in touch.

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## What We Do

AI & Society hosts community events across Australia including:
• Talks and presentations
• Interactive workshops
• Civic discussions
• Design sprints
• Networking events
Our sessions combine learning, discussion and practical exploration.

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## Who We Are For

AI & Society is for anyone who wants to understand the future shaped by AI.
Including:

Professionals and leaders
Students and researchers
Technologists
Entrepreneurs
Community members
Curious learners

No technical background is required.

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## Why AI & Society Exists

Artificial intelligence is becoming one of the most transformative forces of our time.
Yet most people are not part of the conversation.
AI & Society exists to change that.
We believe the future of AI should be shaped by informed communities, not just institutions.

## Sydney

As a global hub with international headquarters, world-class research institutions, and a thriving tech scene, Sydney is a powerful vantage point for conversations about AI’s future.

By grounding our work in local context, we uncover insights that often go unnoticed in national or global narratives. This is about listening, learning, and co-creating ideas with the communities who live and work here.

I’m excited to learn from Sydney’s thinkers and doers, and to explore the innovation already shaping the city’s AI landscape.

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## Join the Community

Join AI & Society to: