Author: David Leane

Quick Overview

• Suntory Oceania allocates $30 million towards IT to back a new $400 million carbon-neutral facility in Queensland.
• This facility marks the most significant FMCG investment in Australia in the past ten years.
• The IT overhaul incorporates SAP S/4 HANA for a connected ecosystem.
• Swanbank Facility has the capacity to produce 20 million cases per year through cutting-edge automation.
• Effortless integration of CRM and sales-force automation improves customer interactions.
• Honored with the 2025 SAP Best Tech Award for Customer Experience.
• Contributes to Suntory’s worldwide sustainability objectives through data transparency.

Technology Central to Manufacturing Excellence

Suntory Oceania’s new Swanbank Beverage Facility in Queensland boasts an annual production capability of 20 million drink cases, with future scalability considered. Its automation capabilities permit the production and storage of two complete pallets every minute, establishing it as one of the leading facilities in the area. The Digital & IT team coordinated 34 connections among SAP, Extended Warehouse Management (EWM), and operational technology systems. Moreover, automated shuttles link docks directly to production lines, removing manual delays and facilitating real-time visibility from order to shipping.

Effortless Customer Engagement

Suntory Oceania’s IT revamp has advanced not only its backend operations but also the way the company interacts with customers and partners. A new CRM platform acts as the definitive source across sales, support, and customer self-service, integrating smoothly with a telephony and sales-force automation system for its 200-member licensed sales team. The online store has been enhanced to feature an expanded alcoholic selection and real-time license verification, allowing for dynamic pricing and near-real-time integration with manufacturing and logistics.

A New Chapter for the Region’s Beverage Sector

The IT and operational overhaul positions Suntory Oceania as a driving force for the next wave of advanced manufacturing in Australia and New Zealand. The Swanbank facility’s carbon-neutral attributes align with Suntory’s global “Growing for Good” philosophy, bolstered by digital infrastructures that uphold sustainability targets through data clarity and real-time management. Suntory Oceania’s transformation signifies a redefined identity by merging technology, sustainability, and brand under a unified regional strategy.

A brief video showcasing the new facility can be accessed here.

Conclusion

Suntory Oceania’s $30 million IT revamp has effectively powered its $400 million carbon-neutral beverage hub in Queensland. By integrating state-of-the-art SAP solutions and establishing an agile, data-informed platform, the company has set new standards in manufacturing excellence, customer interaction, and sustainability. This transformation not only positions Suntory Oceania as a frontrunner in the beverage industry but also highlights the significance of digital transformation for resilience and growth within Australia’s manufacturing sector.

Q: What was the primary investment in Suntory Oceania’s revamp?

A: Suntory Oceania allocated $30 million towards IT infrastructure to support its $400 million carbon-neutral facility in Queensland.

Q: Which technology platform did Suntory Oceania adopt?

A: Suntory Oceania adopted SAP S/4 HANA to establish an integrated digital ecosystem for its operations.

Q: In what way does the new facility aid in sustainability?

A: The Swanbank facility is carbon-neutral, aligning with Suntory’s global “Growing for Good” philosophy and underpinned by data transparency and real-time oversight.

Q: What makes the Swanbank facility technologically advanced?

A: The Swanbank facility features automation capable of producing and storing two complete pallets every minute, along with automated shuttles and 34 synchronized interfaces for seamless operations.

Q: How has customer engagement evolved post-transformation?

A: Suntory Oceania’s new CRM platform unifies sales, support, and customer self-service, facilitating dynamic pricing and responsive adaptation to market shifts.

Q: What recognition did Suntory Oceania garner for their transformation?

A: Suntory Oceania, along with partners DXC Technology and Accenture, was awarded the 2025 SAP Best Tech Award for Customer Experience.

Brief Overview

• AI is transforming HR operations, optimizing recruitment, training, and development.
• HR technology has progressed from supporting managers to empowering staff members.
• Generative AI is customizing recruitment processes and speeding up procedures.
• Technology aids in recognizing skill deficiencies and suggesting educational paths.
• AI boosts employee involvement, contentment, and retention rates.
• HR executives must align technological possibilities with leadership that prioritizes human factors.

The Influence of AI on HR Advancement

Artificial intelligence is reshaping every aspect of the workplace, with HR leaders feeling its effects acutely. As guardians of their organisation’s human resources, HR professionals are now at the forefront of AI integration, making choices that will reshape workplace organization, collaboration between humans and machines, and the skill sets essential for success in the future.

Transitioning from Data to Employee Empowerment

Job titles now frequently refer to “people and culture,” yet the core function of HR leadership remains unchanged: guaranteeing that the organisation attracts top talent while providing every individual with an environment conducive to optimal performance. The advent of AI builds upon decades of technological advancements. Since the 1990s, multiple waves of digital innovations have transformed HR practices, shifting the emphasis from providing HR leaders with data and control to empowering employees and refining their experiences.

Transforming Recruitment

Currently, the influence of technology permeates the entire HR lifecycle, beginning with recruitment. Machine learning has long played a role in screening and selecting candidates. However, generative AI now introduces new avenues for automation, personalization, and acceleration in this process.

Improving Learning and Development

Technology not only disseminates content but also pinpoints emerging skills shortages and advises on customized learning routes, ensuring employees are well-equipped for what lies ahead.

Insights on Engagement and Culture

Systems powered by technology assist managers in grasping the employee experience by identifying engagement and cultural challenges and recommending timely measures to enhance satisfaction and retention.

Hybrid Work and Human-Focused Leadership

In an environment of hybrid work, technology facilitates communication, collaboration, and connection. HR leaders face the task of leveraging the capabilities of technology while preserving the human aspect central to their roles.

Key Figures in HR Transformation

Discover the HR leaders utilizing digital innovations to reshape their departments, including:

• Amy Johnsson, senior manager for people and culture business partnering, Swisse Wellness
• Chelsea Mannix, chief people officer, Funlab
• Sarah Macdonald, group people and culture manager, Hardie Grant Media
• Karli Newell, people and culture advisor, Macro Mike
• Yvette McDonald, chief people and customer officer, Anglicare
• Ed Milne, people and culture manager, Air-Met Scientific
• Neal Woolrich, director, Gartner’s Business and Technology Insights Group
• Sharon Hutchinson, human resources manager, Shwartz Media
• Aaron McEwan, vice president of advisory, Gartner HR practice
• Jasleen Kaur, senior principal, Gartner HR practice

Conclusion

The outlook for HR technology is bright, with AI playing a crucial role in reshaping recruitment, learning, and employee involvement. HR leaders need to skillfully combine technological innovations with human-centered approaches to effectively guide their organizations into 2025 and the years that follow.

Q: In what ways is AI transforming the recruitment process?

A: AI automates and customizes recruitment, facilitating quicker screening and selection of candidates, thereby accelerating the hiring process.

Q: What function does technology serve in learning and development?

A: Technology identifies skill deficits and provides tailored learning suggestions, ensuring employees gain the essential skills for the future.

Q: How does AI influence employee engagement and workplace culture?

A: AI aids in analyzing engagement and cultural issues, proposing interventions to boost satisfaction and improve retention.

Q: What primary challenge do HR leaders encounter concerning AI implementation?

A: HR leaders are tasked with balancing the potential of technology while upholding a human-centric approach in their leadership practices.

Quick Overview

• Queensland invests $40 million in enhancing cyber security systems.
• Plan focuses on improving procurement methods for security technologies.
• 28% of cybercrimes in Australia take place in Queensland.
• Efforts will work to resolve a shortage of 30,000 cyber security professionals in Australia.
• The strategy aligns with the federal government’s 2023-2030 framework.

Queensland’s $40 Million Cyber Security Investment

The Government of Queensland has unveiled a major $40 million investment to bolster its cyber security measures. This funding will facilitate essential system upgrades to protect the state’s digital infrastructure from escalating cyber threats.

Improved Procurement Procedures for Security Technologies

This strategy aims to streamline the procurement processes for state and municipal agencies, enabling easier access to advanced security technologies. By providing enhanced procurement resources and support, Queensland looks to establish a more resilient system and supply chain against cyber threats.

Tackling the Rising Cyber Crime Rates

Recognizing that 28% of Australia’s cybercrimes are committed in Queensland, the state acknowledges the critical need to confront this issue. The newly implemented strategy is crafted to alleviate these elevated crime rates through improved collaboration with various sectors, including the government, industry, and educational institutions.

Addressing the Cyber Security Skills Shortage

A central element of the strategy involves tackling the notably large skills gap in cyber security. The state intends to generate meaningful opportunities and focus on workforce diversity to inject fresh talent and viewpoints into the domain. This initiative is vital as Australia deals with a deficiency of 30,000 skilled cyber security professionals.

Consistency with Federal Cyber Security Strategy

The Queensland strategy is crafted to enhance the federal government’s 2023-2030 cyber security framework. This consistency promotes a unified response to national cyber security challenges and provides a collective front against potential risks.

Recap

Queensland is taking decisive measures to strengthen its cyber security framework with a $40 million investment in system advancements and procurement strategies. By addressing both the rising incidence of cyber crime and the talent shortage, the state is synchronizing its initiatives with the national strategy to build a robust defense against cyber threats.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the primary objective of Queensland’s cyber security strategy?

A: The primary objective is to enhance the state’s cyber defences through system upgrades and refined procurement strategies.

Q: In what way does Queensland intend to resolve the skills gap in cyber security?

A: Queensland plans to generate opportunities and emphasize diversity in the workforce to attract new talent and perspectives to the sector.

Q: How does this strategy align with the federal government’s agenda?

A: The strategy complements the federal government’s 2023-2030 agenda, promoting a coordinated national approach to cyber security.

Q: What actions are being implemented to enhance procurement for security tech?

A: The strategy features upgraded procurement guidelines and tools aimed at simplifying the process and bolstering resilience against attacks.

Brief Overview

• Microsoft is inundated with refund requests for its Copilot AI add-on to M365.
• Australia’s ACCC has charged Microsoft with deceiving consumers regarding M365 pricing.
• Customers are facing difficulties in securing refunds and downgrading their subscriptions.
• The ACCC’s legal actions persist despite Microsoft’s proposal for refunds.

Microsoft’s Refund Challenges

Microsoft has been flooded with refund requests for its Copilot AI add-on to the Microsoft 365 (M365) suite. Following the announcement of a refund initiative, the company experienced unexpectedly long customer support wait times. Microsoft claims it has been working to resolve this influx, which has now decreased.

The ACCC’s Claims

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has charged Microsoft with misleading 2.7 million Australian users concerning the pricing available for its M365 plans. The core issue centers on whether Microsoft hid a less expensive “classic” subscription option without Copilot, directing customers toward pricier plans that included the AI feature.

Customer Reports

Despite Microsoft’s apology and refund offer, several customers are reporting challenges when attempting to downgrade to the classic version without AI, asserting that a clear option to do so is absent in their account settings. Moreover, some have been advised to contact Microsoft during US business hours for assistance with their problems.

Ongoing Legal Actions

The ACCC has indicated that its legal pursuit against Microsoft continues independently of the company’s refund strategy. The regulator is seeking penalties, injunctions, and court declarations, striving for effective remedy for consumers.

Conclusion

Microsoft is currently tackling major hurdles regarding refund requests for its M365 Copilot AI add-on. With legal pressures from the ACCC and dissatisfaction among customers, the tech giant is managing a complex situation that highlights the importance of transparency in subscription services. The resolution of these developments may have significant implications for Microsoft’s business activities in Australia.

Q&A

Q: What is the primary concern regarding Microsoft’s Copilot refund process?

A: Customers are facing challenges in obtaining refunds and downgrading to a “classic” M365 subscription without the Copilot AI add-on.

Q: Why is the ACCC involved in this case?

A: The ACCC has accused Microsoft of misleading Australians about the pricing options for M365 plans, leading to legal intervention.

Q: Has Microsoft cleared the backlog of refund requests?

A: Microsoft reports that the influx of refund requests has decreased following the initial surge.

Q: What actions can affected customers take?

A: Customers encountering issues should reach out to Microsoft support, although some may need to contact them during US business hours for resolution.

Q: Will the ACCC cease its legal actions after Microsoft’s refund initiative?

A: No, the ACCC continues to pursue legal action, seeking penalties and effective consumer redress despite the refund program.

Q: What potential effects could this situation have on Microsoft in Australia?

A: Ongoing legal issues and customer dissatisfaction could affect Microsoft’s reputation and operations in the Australian market.

Brief Overview

• Actors sponsored by states like China, Iran, Russia, and North Korea have taken advantage of Google’s Gemini AI.
• The AI Threat Tracker report has been published by Google’s Threat Intelligence Group (GTIG).
• These actors have circumvented the security protocols of Gemini via social engineering.
• New malware types such as PROMPTFLUX and PROMPTSTEAL signal the growth of threats.
• Google addresses these risks by disabling accounts once suspicious activity is detected.

Introduction

As of 2025, state-sponsored threat actors from China, Iran, Russia, and North Korea have effectively leveraged Google’s Gemini AI to improve their cyber-attack methodologies. In spite of Google’s persistent efforts to identify and curb misuse, these actors have found ways to bypass the AI’s security protocols.

AI Threat Tracker Report

Google’s Threat Intelligence Group (GTIG) published a document named AI Threat Tracker: Advances in Threat Actor Usage of AI Tools. This report emphasizes how adversaries have transitioned from utilizing AI for productivity to more malicious applications. It continues findings from January 2025, offering insights on how these actors exploit AI resources such as Gemini.

Circumventing Security Protocols

Even with Google’s protective measures, threat actors have adeptly bypassed Gemini’s safeguards through social engineering techniques. One significant scenario involved a Chinese actor posing as a capture-the-flag competitor to gain exploitation guidance from Gemini. Other groups have employed similar strategies to create bespoke malware and execute phishing schemes.

Malware Innovation and Application

Emerging malware like PROMPTFLUX and PROMPTSTEAL illustrates the potential maturation of cyber threats. PROMPTFLUX alters its code in real-time to avoid detection, while PROMPTSTEAL dynamically crafts commands for data theft. These advancements showcase continuous experimentation in AI-enhanced malware development.

Conclusion

The exploitation of Google’s Gemini AI by state-sponsored groups highlights the changing landscape of cyber threats. While Google is persistently improving its security defenses, the adaptability of these actors presents ongoing challenges. The rise of AI-driven malware adds complexity to the cybersecurity field, emphasizing the need for sustained vigilance and innovation in defense strategies.

Q&A

Q: What is the AI Threat Tracker report?

A: It is a report from Google’s Threat Intelligence Group that outlines the misuse of AI tools like Gemini by threat actors.

Q: In what ways do threat actors circumvent Gemini’s security?

A: They utilize social engineering methods, such as pretending to be legitimate users, to bypass security measures.

Q: What is PROMPTFLUX?

A: PROMPTFLUX is a form of experimental malware that dynamically adjusts its source code to avoid detection.

Q: How does Google respond to these threats?

A: Google limits the time frame within which actors can misuse the AI by shutting down accounts upon detection.

Q: What significance does AI-driven malware hold?

A: AI-driven malware represents a novel challenge in cybersecurity, necessitating new and creative defensive strategies.

Brief Overview

• From November 2025, all newly manufactured electric vehicles in Australia must incorporate Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS).
• AVAS is vital for the safety of pedestrians, particularly for individuals with visual impairments.
• This regulation aims to reduce fatalities and injuries, resulting in an estimated A$208 million in savings for the community.
• Numerous car brands, including Tesla, are already in compliance with AVAS rules in other regions.

The Updated 2-Phase AVAS Requirement

Starting 1 November 2025, the AVAS requirement will be mandatory for all new electric, hybrid, and hydrogen vehicles across Australia. By 1 November 2026, it will also encompass all new quiet road transport vehicles. This gradual implementation guarantees thorough compliance among all vehicle categories.

Functionality of AVAS and Its Sound

The AVAS is engineered to emit a synthetic sound at lower speeds, ensuring that nearby road users can hear the vehicles. The sound’s pitch or volume changes to signal acceleration or deceleration, with a maximum noise level akin to that of a household dishwasher.

Significant Safety and Economic Advantages

The roll-out of AVAS aims to safeguard vulnerable groups, such as children and those with visual impairments. It is anticipated to avert numerous fatalities and injuries, bringing notable economic advantages by reducing healthcare costs and losses in productivity.

Support for the Transition

This mandate has backing from both the automotive industry and safety proponents. It positions Australia in line with global standards and responds to the efforts of advocacy groups pushing for enhanced road safety for at-risk populations.

Tesla’s Preparedness

A variety of manufacturers, including Tesla, have already integrated AVAS in their vehicles available internationally. Tesla’s Pedestrian Warning System is currently featured in models such as the Model 3 and Model Y in Australia.

The Future Path

The implementation of AVAS in Australian vehicles marks a notable advancement in the nation’s transition to electric vehicles. This system guarantees that the commitment to environmental responsibility does not put pedestrian safety at risk.

Conclusion

Australia’s initiative to enforce AVAS in electric vehicles represents a vital measure for improving road safety. By adopting international standards, Australia is committed to safeguarding its most vulnerable citizens while moving toward electric transportation.

Q: What is AVAS and why is it crucial?

A: AVAS refers to Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System. It produces sound to notify pedestrians of the presence of near-silent electric vehicles, thereby enhancing safety.

Q: When will the AVAS requirement be implemented?

A: The requirement will start on 1 November 2025 for new electric vehicle models and will apply to all new quiet vehicles by 1 November 2026.

Q: How does AVAS influence the driving experience?

A: AVAS functions at low speeds and does not interfere with the driving experience. It ensures vehicles are hearable to pedestrians without being disruptive.

Q: Are existing electric vehicles in Australia compliant with AVAS standards?

A: Several vehicles, particularly from brands like Tesla, are already compliant with AVAS regulations due to current guidelines in other regions.

Q: What are the anticipated benefits of the AVAS requirement?

A: The requirement is expected to prevent many injuries and fatalities, with an economic advantage of A$208 million through diminished healthcare and productivity losses.

Q: How does AVAS connect Australia with international regulations?

A: AVAS aligns Australia with regulations from the EU, US, and other areas, ensuring uniform vehicle safety standards around the world.