AROUND 150 business leaders, industry representatives and technology practitioners from across the Mid North Coast attended a “Future of Business – Technology Summit” in Port Macquarie on Tuesday, 17 March.
Hosted by Business NSW at Panthers Port Macquarie, the summit’s primary focus was how artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies are reshaping education, healthcare and the future of the workforce.
Discussions highlighted the need for strong digital infrastructure, responsible AI adoption and workforce readiness, with speakers emphasising how rapidly technology is transforming industries and jobs across the region.
The spotlight on education looked at the role schools and training providers play in preparing students for an AI-enabled workforce, among other related topics.
A student panel from St Columba Anglican School offered a grounded and candid perspective on these challenges.
When asked whether AI was shaping their future choices, students said the topic was front of mind and discussed regularly with teachers.
“I think it’s a bit concerning that we aren’t hearing much of the future proofing for jobs from the [older generations] who do have the ability to change it,” one student said.
“And from what I’ve seen… there are some law jobs that are being cut out.
“For someone who wants to go into law later on, it is very scary.”
One student considering a future in physiotherapy said the impact of AI was now a major consideration in career planning.
“When I think about it… the emerging younger generation…are turning towards AI for medical advice as well and asking themselves: ‘Why would I pay $500 to see a physio if I can ask AI to give me exercises that I can do at home for free?’
“It makes me question if there will still be a demand for physios in the world in five years time when I [finish] university and get into the workforce.”
Facilitator and keynote speaker Adam Spencer, “Australia’s AI, innovation and GPT expert”, encouraged a balanced approach.
“For the last few years, I’ve just been stunned to see the explosion in AI… and just the breadth of applications that you have,” he said.
On its use in education, he warned that AI is tempting students to cut corners.
“That’s why we’ve probably got to start getting it right at school more than anything,” he said.
Healthcare discussions focused on how digital transformation is improving access and outcomes across regional communities.
Panellists explored the rollout of a single digital patient record across New South Wales.
Mid North Coast Local Health District Director Digital Health Ian Treweek described it as “probably the biggest digital transformation in health in a generation”.
Panellists also highlighted the rapid growth of virtual care, enabling patients to access clinicians from home, reducing pressure on emergency departments and improving continuity of care.
By Sis HIGGINS
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