Day 2 Morning Keynote Session - Part 2
| Tuesday, August 27, 2024 |
| 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM |
Overview
9:30am - 9:35am
Five Minute Scene Setting
Brook Orr, Director Northern Australia Universities Alliance (NAUA)
9:35am - 9:50am
Presentation by
Janelle Marr, Managing Director, StepBeyond Strategy
9:50am - 10:05am
Investing in North Australia’s Human Capital: Population Policy, Talent Acquisition, and Immigration Innovation
Dr Tanzil Rahman, Academic Research Visitor, St Edmund Hall, University of Oxford
10:05am - 10:20am
Advancing our Northern Regions through Robust Innovation Ecosystems & AI
Dr Samantha Horseman, HDR Innovation and Industry Lead
10:20am - 10:30am
Panel Presentation
Janelle Marr, Managing Director, StepBeyond Strategy
Dr Tanzil Rahman, Academic Research Visitor, St Edmund Hall, University of Oxford
Dr Samantha Horseman, HDR Innovation and Industry Lead
Speaker
Dr Samantha J Horseman
HDR Innovation and Industry Lead
Advancing Our Northern Regions Through Robust Innovation Ecosystems & AI
Abstract
Objective: This keynote is designed to inspire and mobilise stakeholders across sectors to engage deeply with the themes of technological innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development, aligning with the overarching goals of the 2024 Developing Northern Australia Conference.
With Northern Australia on the cusp of significant economic and social transformation, the integration of AI technologies and the cultivation of vibrant innovation ecosystems emerge as pivotal elements in driving sustainable development, enhancing regional competitiveness, and fostering inclusive growth. This keynote will delve into strategic frameworks and collaborative initiatives aimed at harnessing the power of AI and innovation ecosystems to address unique regional challenges, capitalise on untapped opportunities, and catalyse economic diversification. Through a systematic multidisciplinary approach, I will examine successful case studies of AI implementation in agriculture, mining, and healthcare, showcasing the potential for AI to enhance efficiency, productivity, and resilience across critical sectors. Furthermore, the discussion will extend to the role of innovation ecosystems in empowering local communities, entrepreneurs, and businesses by providing access to knowledge, networks, and resources essential for innovation and growth. Key themes include the significance of cross-sector partnerships, the importance of tailored policy support, and the critical role of education and skills development in ensuring that the benefits of AI and innovation are accessible and equitable across the Northern regions. By fostering a collaborative dialogue among policymakers, industry leaders, academics, and community representatives, this keynote aims to chart a forward-looking path for the Northern regions of Australia, where innovation and technology serve as the bedrock for a prosperous and sustainable future. Join me at the 2024 Developing Northern Australia Conference to contribute to and benefit from a comprehensive exploration of how AI and robust innovation ecosystems can propel the Northern regions towards a brighter, more innovative future.
With Northern Australia on the cusp of significant economic and social transformation, the integration of AI technologies and the cultivation of vibrant innovation ecosystems emerge as pivotal elements in driving sustainable development, enhancing regional competitiveness, and fostering inclusive growth. This keynote will delve into strategic frameworks and collaborative initiatives aimed at harnessing the power of AI and innovation ecosystems to address unique regional challenges, capitalise on untapped opportunities, and catalyse economic diversification. Through a systematic multidisciplinary approach, I will examine successful case studies of AI implementation in agriculture, mining, and healthcare, showcasing the potential for AI to enhance efficiency, productivity, and resilience across critical sectors. Furthermore, the discussion will extend to the role of innovation ecosystems in empowering local communities, entrepreneurs, and businesses by providing access to knowledge, networks, and resources essential for innovation and growth. Key themes include the significance of cross-sector partnerships, the importance of tailored policy support, and the critical role of education and skills development in ensuring that the benefits of AI and innovation are accessible and equitable across the Northern regions. By fostering a collaborative dialogue among policymakers, industry leaders, academics, and community representatives, this keynote aims to chart a forward-looking path for the Northern regions of Australia, where innovation and technology serve as the bedrock for a prosperous and sustainable future. Join me at the 2024 Developing Northern Australia Conference to contribute to and benefit from a comprehensive exploration of how AI and robust innovation ecosystems can propel the Northern regions towards a brighter, more innovative future.
Biography
Sam is committed to connecting academia and industry to create a sustainable innovation ecosystem. With over 25 years of experience as an inventor and entrepreneur, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in human-machine interface, artificial intelligence, and industry/business development. Her mission is to develop exemplary researchers, next-gen innovators, and startup founders contributing to regional economic growth and job creation. Her portfolio consists of 60 granted patents, 15 prototypes, 47 publications, and 25 global awards. She is also a board member QLD AI Hub and Director of the Cairns AI Chapter enhancing the capability of AI across Queensland.
Janelle Marr
Managing Director
StepBeyond Strategy
Keynote Janelle Marr
Biography
Janelle Marr is an experienced Company Director and a leading strategic advisor with over 30 years in strategy, sustainability and transformation programs in Australia and overseas.
She is Managing Director of StepBeyond Strategy, an impact-driven corporate advisory supporting Boards and C-Suites to drive long term value creation and a fairer, more equitable and sustainable world.
Janelle is both a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and Governance Institute of Australia; and currently serves on the Boards of Tourism WA, WA Arts and Culture Trust and Foundation Housing Ltd. She has also served a decade on University Boards including Charles Darwin University and Edith Cowan University.
Brook Orr
Director
Northern Australia Universities Alliance (NAUA)
Five Minute Scene Setting
Abstract
Unlock the potential of Northern Australia's future with our session on "Knowledge, Skills, and Migration for Tomorrow's Success" at the Developing Northern Australia Conference. Delve into the dynamic landscape of the Future of Work, charting our course toward progress. Discover strategies to attract talented individuals to the north, fostering growth and diversity through migration. Explore how we can shape a robust talent pipeline, consider the transformative impact of AI on the workforce, showcasing opportunities for innovation in Northern Australia. Against the backdrop of Australia's evolving policy landscape, including the Australia Universities Accord, national skills agreements, and the Migration Strategy, we navigate the path forward. How can we lay the groundwork for a skilled workforce ready to thrive in tomorrow's economy. Join Brook Orr, Janelle Marr, Dr Tanzil Rahman, and Dr Samantha Horseman as we envision a brighter future for Northern Australia, powered by knowledge, skills, and strategic migration initiatives.
Biography
Brook is the Director of the Northern Australia Universities Alliance, which brings together CQUniversity, Charles Darwin University, and James Cook University.
Brook is a transformative leader with two decades of experience spanning Higher Education, Vocational Education and Training, and the Tourism industry. Her career has seen her work across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Brook is dedicated to fostering collaboration and innovation by connecting academia, government, business, and industry to drive tangible results. She holds a Master of Business Administration, Master of Conflict and Dispute Resolution and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and Governance Institute of Australia.
Brook grew up in remote Far North Queensland and strongly connects with the unique challenges and opportunities facing Northern Australia.
Dr Tanzil Rahman
Academic Research Visitor
St Edmund Hall, University of Oxford
Investing in North Australia’s Human Capital: Population Policy, Talent Acquisition, and Immigration Innovation
Biography
Dr Tanzil Rahman completed his doctorate in the School of Geography and the Environment at the University of Oxford, examining how states maintain competitiveness in the global market for skilled migrants, new models for economic migration policy, and use of technology in immigration settings. His ideas have been presented at assemblies including the Global Forum for Migration and Development, Metropolis International, UN Global Refugee Forum, and to policymakers and private-sector stakeholders widely. He has previously worked as a management consultant, government executive, project manager, and political advisor, and holds qualifications in law, economics, and music, from the University of Sydney.
