AI is no longer in the future, it’s in the here and now, from smartphones to smart technologies in our homes, in drones, social media and streaming services. We see its application in robots being used in agriculture, from picking fruit to picking weeds. In medicine, we see it in robotic prosthetics and in tech helping doctors make key decisions in treating patients. There is a global revolution in AI and robotics – and Queensland is making its mark.
It’s Australia's AI Month from 15 November to 15 December 2023 giving the sector an opportunity to celebrate its achievements and highlight the possibilities that responsible development and adoption of AI contributes to a sustainable, world-class innovation economy.
Queensland is a leader in AI adoption with a substantial presence in industries such as AI-powered cyber-physical systems, health, mining, and aviation technologies. The state's expertise positions it as a key player in Australia's rapidly evolving AI landscape.
Leading academic institutions continue to attract top talent and researchers to Queensland, and collaborations between academia, government, and industry have laid a solid foundation for cutting-edge AI projects and initiatives.
Queensland's commitment to research and development in AI is evident through dedicated centres and initiatives, and programs focusing on AI applications in areas such as healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.
The state hosts a number of significant research institutes, including the Queensland University of Technology Centre for Robotics, the University of Queensland School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, and Griffith University’s Institute for Integrated and Intelligent Systems.
It also hosts the Advanced Robotics Manufacturing Hub (ARM Hub) which aims to accelerate the uptake of advanced manufacturing technologies, including robotics and automation, artificial intelligence, machine learning, 3D printing, nanotechnologies, the internet of things, sensors, and data analytics. Since its inception in 2020, the hub has created 187 jobs, attracted 26 international and interstate companies to invest in Queensland projects, and six international/interstate businesses to establish operations in Queensland.
Commercially, the state is home to companies including SiteSee which uses drones and AI to automatically inspect power infrastructure, Canaria which has developed an AI ear-piece that monitors the vital signs of workers to prevent accidents and fatalities, and human performance technology company Smartabase, whose clients include Arsenal Football Club, the Royal Antwerp Football Club, the Los Angeles Lakers, and the Dallas Cowboys.
Advance Queensland provides strong support for technological innovation and leadership. Initiatives include the establishment of the Queensland AI Hub in 2020 to increase awareness, and progress AI development, as well as deliver skills programs and connect innovators within the AI sector.
Today, the hub works across Queensland regions through active chapters operating in Cairns, Mackay, Bundaberg, Toowoomba, and Sunshine Coast, and launches its newly established Townsville chapter on Thursday 16 November.
Programs such as Advance Queensland’s Ignite Ideas Fund have provided financial and business mentoring support for a number of startups using AI technologies. Some of these businesses are achieving national and international recognition for their work, including Voltin with its Facility and Building Condition Assessment tool, and FloodMapp for its flood map forecasting technology.
The Advance Queensland Industry Research Fellowship is also supporting AI-based innovations such as the portable skin cancer detection system developed by Dr Syed Naqvi from The University of Queensland, and AI vision-based structural health monitoring technology for tunnels developed by Dr Andy Nguyen from the University of Southern Queensland.
Many industry sectors in Queensland are actively integrating AI into their operations. The use of AI in predictive analytics, robotics, and automation is enhancing efficiency, productivity, and sustainability across sectors.
In agriculture, AI empowers farmers to make precise and data-driven decisions, contributing to the efficiency and sustainability of farming operations and practice. For example, AI algorithms can predict the optimal time for seed planting, aligning with weather patterns and soil conditions to maximise crop yields.
At the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct, IntelliHQ, a collaborative initiative involving Gold Coast Health, industry stakeholders, and universities, is revolutionising healthcare by establishing an ecosystem to harness AI to improve the quality of patient care, health outcomes and cost effectiveness, while sharing AI knowledge and capabilities.
The demand for AI professionals is on the rise, creating opportunities for skilled workers. Efforts to upskill and train the workforce in AI-related fields are crucial to meet the industry's growing demands and maintain Queensland's competitive edge.
Queensland's position in the global market is evolving. Collaborations with international partners, exchange of ideas, and participation in AI forums and initiatives contribute to the state's visibility and influence in the global AI landscape.
The AI industry stands on the brink of tremendous growth. With a supportive ecosystem, government initiatives, and a strong focus on research and development, Queensland is well-positioned to drive innovation, economic growth, and positive societal impacts through the integration of AI technologies.
Discover more about what’s happening in the Queensland AI sector.
