AI in practice: Lessons and Questions from local innovation
When we talk about the future of AI in government, the conversation can often feel abstract. Yet some of the most valuable insights come from seeing how ideas are already being put into action. This session brings together AI in Practice: Lessons and Questions from Local Innovation.
Three years on from ChatGPT’s launch, government and industry are both grappling with what “AI in practice” really means. Some lessons are emerging, and so are a new set of challenges.
Join Justin Butcher and Dr Rishni Ratnam for an interactive session that brings public sector and private sector experience together. This discussion will explore three connected themes:
Handling the messiness of real-world AI
Big challenges we know we need to solve
Big challenges on the horizon
Justin and Rishni will set the scene with by sharing their experiences from different sectors, sparking a discussion on what happens when AI begins to shift everyday work. Participants will then collaborate together to explore their own perspectives; sharing ideas, challenges and practical approaches.
You’ll leave with a clearer picture of what’s working, what’s not, and where the next wave of innovation may take government and the private sector.
Facilitators
Justin Butcher is Chief IT Architect at the Department of Finance, where he plays a central role in shaping strategy and planning for GovAI. With a long track record in government innovation and strategic planning, Justin brings a perspective grounded in both policy and practice.
Rishni Ratnam is CEO of MXA, a boutique ICT strategy and innovation consultancy. Holding a PhD in mathematics from the Australian National University, and working in AI since 2016, Rishni has a diverse range of experiences in AI. He has founded two AI startups, developed AI systems for three large private sector companies, and managed two $100M+ portfolios of AI initiatives.
AI CoLab events are intentionally open and collaborative. For this session we may capture photos to share publicly. This is done in line with the Charter’s values; transparent, ethical innovation and knowledge sharing to accelerate collective learning (see join.aicolab.org). By participating in this event, you agree to being photographed and for those images to be shared in accordance with this policy.