AI’s radical challenge to save Australia

Australia faces tough challenges. 

Climate change is making our weather more extreme, with bushfires, droughts, and floods becoming more common. 

At the same time, our population is growing older, and chronic health issues like heart disease and diabetes are on the rise. 

This puts a strain on both the environment and our healthcare system.

Australia’s AI Sprint gives you the resources and support to develop the solutions to tackle these pressing issues. 

Here’s why they matter – and how you can get involved to make a difference.

What are the public health concerns facing Australia? 

There are a number of major health concerns facing Australians.

Chronic diseases are a major health burden in Australia, with some of the most common:

• Heart disease - the leading cause of death in Australia, responsible for a significant portion of healthcare costs.
• Diabetes - affects millions of Australians, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other complications.
• Respiratory conditions - asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease are widespread, impacting quality of life and leading to hospitalisations.

Meanwhile, mental health concerns are on the rise in Australia, affecting a significant portion of the population. These include:

• Anxiety and depression - these common conditions can significantly impact daily life and work.
• Substance abuse - drug and alcohol misuse are serious problems with complex health consequences.

Lower income and disadvantaged communities often face poorer health outcomes due to limited access to healthcare. 

And as the population ages, the demand for these healthcare services is expected to increase. This pushes costs higher and makes it harder to deliver quality care to everyone.

What are the environmental threats facing Australia?

Climate change is the overarching threat that intensifies other problems. 

Australia is particularly vulnerable to climate change due to its unique geography and ecosystems. Here are some key impacts:

• Extreme weather events - more frequent and intense bushfires, droughts, floods, and heatwaves are causing widespread damage to infrastructure, property, and natural habitats.
• Rising sea levels - threatens coastal communities, ecosystems, and infrastructure through inundation and erosion.
• Ocean acidification - caused by increased CO2 absorption, harming marine life (like coral reefs), which are vital for the health of the ocean.

Australia has also seen issues due to land clearing for agriculture, development, and mining destroys natural habitats. These include:

• Species extinction - Australia has a high rate of species extinction, threatening ecological balance and ecosystem services.
• Loss of biodiversity - this reduces the resilience of ecosystems and their ability to provide clean air, water, and food security.

As a nation, Australia has a high-level of resources use and pollution. This harms our health, reduces biodiversity, and threatens the livelihoods of people who rely on these resources. 

It also contributes to climate change, creating a vicious cycle that requires urgent action.

What is the role of AI in addressing these challenges? 

Imagine a future with cleaner air, healthier communities, and a more resilient environment – that's the future we can build together.

The good news is, there's a powerful tool at our disposal: AI.

AI can help predict disease outbreaks, personalise healthcare plans, and even develop new treatments.

AI can also improve climate modelling, predict natural disasters, and help us manage resources more sustainably.

How can you improve life and living through the AI Sprint?

Australia’s AI Sprint, a collaboration between Stone & Chalk, the National AI Centre and Google Cloud, is your opportunity to be part of the solution.

Applications close 21 March 2024. Apply now. 

Health and sustainability are huge problems facing Australia. But they’re not the only ones! Read more about the other AI Sprint Opportunity Statements where you can contribute.