Techbest – Top Tech Reviews In Australia
The best in Australian gadgets and technology
We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission which is paid directly to our Australia-based writers, editors, and support staff. Thank you for your support!
Donner Wireless Earbuds Noise Cancelling, Bluetooth 5.2 Earphones with ENC for Clear Calls, 12mm Drivers & Balanced Armature, App for Custom EQ, 32H Playtime, Fast Charging – Dobuds ONE, Blue
We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission which is paid directly to our Australia-based writers, editors, and support staff. Thank you for your support!
Australia is adopting a tough approach against misinformation, proposing fines of up to **5% of global revenue** for social media platforms that do not mitigate the dissemination of falsehoods. This initiative aligns Australia with various nations advocating for heightened accountability from global tech giants, including Facebook (Meta), X (formerly Twitter), and others.
The legislation intends to address content that jeopardizes **election integrity**, impacts **public health**, or threatens **critical infrastructure**. This comes amid increasing worries that tech platforms, many based outside Australia, exploit their international reach to circumvent local laws and regulations.
The proposed law requires social media companies to establish **codes of conduct** aimed at managing misinformation and disinformation. These codes will need to receive approval from the **Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA)**. If a platform fails to devise an acceptable code, ACMA has the authority to impose its own standards. Non-compliant platforms could incur fines reaching **5% of their global turnover**.
The bill focuses on a wide array of harmful false information, including:
While many have endorsed the legislation, it has also raised alarms regarding **free speech**. Opponents contend that the bill may bestow excessive control to the government and tech firms over what is considered acceptable discourse. Opposition representative James Paterson has expressed worries, asserting that **Australians’ political views** should remain free from censorship by either the government or foreign platforms.
Minister for Communications **Michelle Rowland** has responded to these apprehensions, clarifying that the bill won’t empower ACMA to compel the removal of individual posts or accounts. Rather, it is designed to focus on overarching platform policies. Additionally, the legislation includes **exemptions** for professional news organizations, artistic works, religious content, and user-created material, aside from government-sanctioned content.
Australia’s efforts to regulate social media are mirrored across the globe. Nations are intensifying their actions against the proliferation of **false information** online, particularly concerning **elections**, **pandemics**, and **national security**.
In Europe, the **Digital Services Act** is poised to impose fines on tech companies that do not reduce misinformation, while the **US** debates how to address the dissemination of disinformation on platforms like X and Facebook.
Social media companies, especially **Meta** and **X**, are at the forefront of this regulatory challenge. Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, has voiced apprehensions regarding the financial ramifications of such legislation. Previously, Meta indicated it might prevent access to professional news content in Australia over a separate regulation mandating payment to media organizations.
On the other hand, **X**, acquired by billionaire **Elon Musk** in 2022, has significantly decreased its content moderation efforts, raising concerns that the platform could turn into a haven for unchecked misinformation.
The **Australian Communications and Media Authority** (ACMA) has embraced the proposed legislation, which would formalize its **regulatory role** in combating misinformation and disinformation across digital avenues. ACMA is anticipated to be a pivotal figure in enforcing the new regulations, ensuring that tech firms fulfill their responsibilities and curtail the propagation of harmful content.
Australia’s recent legislation is intended to tackle the escalating issue of misinformation on social media platforms, imposing significant fines to enforce adherence. The bill assigns tech companies the duty to establish appropriate codes of conduct while empowering ACMA to regulate non-compliant platforms. Despite receiving support, the legislation has raised alarms over free speech and political censorship concerns. By taking this action, Australia joins a worldwide movement of countries seeking to rein in tech giants and uphold the safety and integrity of online environments.
The legislation aims to tackle the spread of misinformation and disinformation on social media platforms, particularly content that threatens election integrity, public health, or critical infrastructure.
Social media companies could face fines of up to 5% of their global revenue if they fail to comply with the legislation.
ACMA will approve codes of conduct from social media platforms and enforce its own standards if platforms fail to do so. It will also play a regulatory role in ensuring compliance.
While the legislation does not force the removal of individual posts or accounts, concerns have been raised about the potential for political censorship. The bill includes exemptions for professional news, artistic, and religious content.
Meta has previously expressed concerns about the financial impact of such regulations and has threatened to block news content. X, under Elon Musk, has reduced its content moderation, which could make it more vulnerable to the new rules.
Yes. Australia’s efforts are part of a broader global push to hold tech giants accountable for the spread of misinformation. Other countries, like those in the EU, are also introducing similar regulations.
The timeline for the legislation has not been specifically mentioned, but it is expected to become a significant issue ahead of Australia’s upcoming federal election.
We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission which is paid directly to our Australia-based writers, editors, and support staff. Thank you for your support!
The Australian government has declared a comprehensive federal inquiry into the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) in its public sector activities. This action stems from rising apprehensions about the swift incorporation of AI technologies without sufficient governance structures to manage their application. The inquiry, launched by the Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit (JCPAA), seeks to closely examine how AI is being adopted in government departments and whether current regulations and policies effectively protect its use.
The JCPAA is responsible for ensuring accountability among Commonwealth agencies, voicing concerns regarding the potential hazards linked to AI application in government functions. The committee notes that although the use of AI in the public sector is increasing, there seems to be a deficit of governance frameworks aimed at appropriately regulating and overseeing this integration. The inquiry will investigate if the present legislative, regulatory, and policy frameworks are “fit for purpose” in dealing with AI technologies.
Establishing governance frameworks, particularly concerning AI, is vital to ensuring adherence to ethical standards, privacy regulations, and cybersecurity measures. The inquiry will assess whether current structures are capable of managing the complexities of AI, such as machine learning, automation, and data analysis, which are progressively being utilized by government agencies to enhance service delivery and decision-making processes.
A primary concern highlighted by the JCPAA is the possible misuse of AI technologies. This misuse could manifest in various forms, from unintended biases present in automated decision-making to privacy breaches arising from negligent data management. The inquiry will delve into the dangers posed by AI systems and whether sufficient oversight mechanisms exist to evaluate AI-generated or AI-assisted results.
As AI becomes increasingly integral to public sector operations, it is essential to ensure that these technologies maintain transparency, equity, and accountability. The inquiry is expected to investigate the testing and validation processes of AI systems to prevent mistakes and misjudgments that could significantly affect Australian citizens.
Another focal point of the inquiry is the internal ability of public sector agencies to effectively embrace and employ AI technologies. While AI offers significant prospects for enhancing efficiency and fostering innovation, the successful integration of these systems necessitates a well-trained workforce capable of managing, interpreting, and effectively utilizing AI outcomes. The inquiry will review the current capacity of government departments in regards to AI management, assessing the availability of adequate training initiatives and resources aimed at upskilling public sector staff.
Cultivating an AI-competent workforce is crucial for ensuring responsible usage of AI systems to their full extent. In the absence of proper education, there exists a risk that agencies could misuse or misinterpret AI-produced data, resulting in suboptimal decisions and potentially harming the public.
The JCPAA has extended an invitation for public submissions to gather broader perspectives on the government’s AI utilization. The committee will analyze submissions that were originally amassed as part of a past inquiry into Commonwealth financial reports for 2022-23. These contributions, in conjunction with new insights, will guide the inquiry’s direction and enhance the understanding of AI application in public sector entities.
Interested individuals and organizations can present their feedback until October 25, 2023. The outcomes of the inquiry are likely to carry significant implications for the future rollout and governance of AI across Australian government agencies.
The Australian government is under increasing inspection regarding its artificial intelligence usage, with a federal inquiry initiated to explore the frameworks and risks tied to AI adoption in public sector activities. Led by the Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit, the inquiry will address governance issues, potential misuse risks, oversight mechanisms, and the internal capabilities of governmental departments to manage AI responsibly. Public contributions are welcome until October 25, 2023, allowing individuals and organizations to voice their opinions on the future of AI in governance.
The inquiry seeks to analyze the current, planned, and future applications of AI by public sector bodies and determine if existing legislative, regulatory, and policy frameworks adequately oversee and monitor these applications. It will also investigate misuse risks and evaluate the public sector’s internal capacities to effectively manage AI technologies.
The inquiry is being conducted by the Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit (JCPAA), which holds the responsibility of ensuring accountability among Commonwealth agencies.
Key risks include the possibility of biased AI-generated outcomes, privacy infringements stemming from inadequate data handling, and a lack of clarity in AI-driven processes. Concerns also exist regarding insufficient oversight, which may lead to misuse or errors in AI outputs.
Public submissions will remain open until October 25, 2023. These contributions will influence the inquiry’s findings and deepen the understanding of AI’s current applications in government operations.
Once the inquiry assesses submissions and compiles its findings, it is likely to publish a report with recommendations on how the government should advance with AI adoption and governance. These insights may lead to policy reforms or development of new regulatory frameworks overseeing AI’s use in the public sector.
AI has the potential to greatly influence government services, encompassing areas from healthcare to social services. Ensuring that AI is employed ethically and responsibly in governmental operations is crucial to safeguarding citizens’ rights, privacy, and access to equitable outcomes. The inquiry aims to secure that AI technologies serve all Australians while minimizing any associated risks.
Governance of AI is vital to guarantee that AI systems are utilized transparently, accountably, and fairly. Without proper governance, there is a danger that AI technologies may lead to unintended outcomes, such as biased decisions, privacy breaches, and cybersecurity risks.
We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission which is paid directly to our Australia-based writers, editors, and support staff. Thank you for your support!
JBL Vibe Beam Black
We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission which is paid directly to our Australia-based writers, editors, and support staff. Thank you for your support!
The realm of cybersecurity is swiftly transforming, and Qantas is rising to the occasion by launching a thorough array of cybersecurity initiatives for the fiscal year 2024-2025. The airline is integrating secure-by-design principles throughout its entire organization and enhancing critical cyber capabilities through automation, ensuring strength in an increasingly digital environment.
Qantas’ 2024 sustainability report showcases a significant growth in its cybersecurity activities relative to prior years. While earlier reports emphasized cyber safety culture, awareness, and employee training, the latest findings indicate a transition towards improvements in processes, technology, and governance. These modifications arise in response to increasing complexity in cybersecurity threats, particularly within the aviation sector.
The airline is not only running phishing simulations and providing tailored cybersecurity training to its workforce, but it is now addressing broader and more complex issues. This includes refining governance processes to handle third- and fourth-party cyber risks—an essential aspect for safeguarding the company’s supply chain. These initiatives are part of Qantas’ ongoing strategy to ensure its cybersecurity framework is sufficiently strong to mitigate risks from both direct suppliers (third parties) and their suppliers (fourth parties).
Qantas is wholeheartedly adopting the “secure-by-design” methodology, which has become fundamental to cybersecurity strategies across numerous industries. Similar to the National Australia Bank (NAB), Qantas is concentrating on embedding secure-by-design practices within its operations. Secure-by-design means that security is integrated into the design and development stages of software and systems, rather than being incorporated later. This strategy minimizes vulnerabilities and enhances the overall security architecture from the outset.
In FY25, Qantas intends to continue evolving secure-by-design practices and further assimilate them throughout the organization. This proactive strategy is crucial for establishing a resilient infrastructure capable of enduring both internal and external threats.
Qantas is also looking ahead by automating critical cybersecurity capabilities. Automation within cybersecurity aids in streamlining processes such as threat detection, incident response, and vulnerability management, enabling the airline to react to threats more quickly and effectively. The airline is harnessing new technologies, including generative AI, to further enhance these capabilities.
Generative AI can aid in recognizing patterns in cyber threats that traditional methods might miss. This enables quicker remediation of vulnerabilities and stronger defenses against emerging threats. By automating essential facets of its cybersecurity operations, Qantas seeks to bolster its overall resilience and stay proactive in the ever-evolving cyber threat landscape.
Cybersecurity is not solely an internal concern for Qantas; it is a collective industry challenge. To tackle this, Qantas is joining forces with other aviation sector players and the Australian federal government to enhance cyber resilience throughout the industry. This partnership is crucial, as the aviation sector is a primary target for cyberattacks due to its dependence on complex systems and sensitive customer information.
Through close collaboration with industry peers and governmental entities, Qantas aims to establish a consolidated defense against possible cyber threats, ensuring the safety and security of its operations and customer data.
Qantas has gained important insights from a recent privacy issue that arose in May 2023. Due to a technological update, the Qantas app briefly malfunctioned, showing data from other customers. The airline took immediate action, voluntarily reporting the issue to the Australian privacy regulator and informing affected clients. This incident underscored the need for more robust privacy and data security measures.
Qantas has since utilized the lessons learned from this event to enhance its technology and privacy frameworks. More broadly, the organization is also examining high-profile cyber incidents that have impacted other Australian and international firms, applying these insights to further strengthen its cybersecurity measures.
Qantas is making significant strides to enhance its cybersecurity framework, focusing on integrating secure-by-design practices across the organization. The airline’s broadened initiatives in automating key cybersecurity functions, improving third- and fourth-party risk management, and collaborating with industry peers and government entities reflect a proactive stance on cyber resilience. Additionally, the airline is leveraging new technologies such as generative AI to stay ahead of potential threats while learning from past incidents to uphold the highest standards of data privacy and security.
Secure-by-design is a cybersecurity approach in which security features are integrated during the design and development phases of software and systems. Qantas is adopting this method to ensure security is rooted in its operations, thereby reducing vulnerabilities and enhancing overall resilience to cyber threats.
Third- and fourth-party cyber risks arise from external suppliers and their suppliers, potentially impacting Qantas’ supply chain. By strengthening governance in these areas, Qantas aims to reduce the risks of cyber incidents that could indirectly affect its operations through these supply chains.
Automation and AI will assist Qantas in streamlining key cybersecurity operations such as threat detection and response. By employing generative AI, Qantas can recognize patterns in cyber threats more efficiently, which facilitates quicker and more effective reactions to potential risks.
After the privacy issue in May 2023, Qantas voluntarily reported the situation to the Australian privacy regulator and reached out to affected customers. The airline has since leveraged this experience to bolster its technology and privacy measures in order to avert future incidents.
Qantas is collaborating closely with aviation industry peers and the Australian government to enhance cybersecurity across the sector. Such collaboration is vital for establishing a united front against cyber threats, particularly in an industry characterized by complexity and interconnectivity.
During the 2024-2025 financial year, Qantas intends to continue strengthening secure-by-design practices, augmenting internal and external security testing, and further automating key cybersecurity processes. The airline will also investigate new technologies such as generative AI to strengthen its defenses.
We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission which is paid directly to our Australia-based writers, editors, and support staff. Thank you for your support!
OTL Nintendo Legend of Zelda TWS Wireless Earpods
We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission which is paid directly to our Australia-based writers, editors, and support staff. Thank you for your support!
Yackandandah, a quaint town in Victoria recognized for its pioneering role in renewable energy, has managed to obtain financing to set up a community battery by 2025. This effort is part of the Victorian Government’s Neighbourhood Battery Program, which seeks to foster renewable energy initiatives throughout the state. The project will establish a community-scale battery at Yackandandah Sports Park, meeting local energy requirements while lowering carbon emissions and boosting energy resilience.
In its continuous quest to embrace renewable energy, the Victorian Government launched the 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Initiative. This project aspires to establish numerous community batteries across the state to improve the storage and distribution of renewable energy. The second round of the program provides up to $15 million in total funding, capping at $400,000 for each battery setup. The effort aims to aid local communities in storing surplus solar energy, minimize energy costs, and supply backup power in emergencies.
Yackandandah is among the towns that have successfully clinched this funding. Renowned for its innovative approach to renewable energy, the community is striving towards complete reliance on renewables. The new neighbourhood battery will be pivotal in realizing this ambition.
Yackandandah has consistently been a leader in the renewable energy arena. The community initiative, Totally Renewable Yackandandah (TRY), is collaborating with Indigo Power and the Indigo Shire Council to help the town achieve energy self-sufficiency. TRY aims to convert Yackandandah into a town powered 100% by renewable electricity by 2028.
The forthcoming community battery will be installed at Yackandandah Sports Park, delivering a number of benefits to local residents. It will store excess solar energy produced during the day for use in the evening, helping to lessen dependence on the main grid and lower energy expenses for households and businesses. Additionally, the battery will serve as a backup power supply during outages or emergencies, ensuring essential services, including sporting clubs and recreational functions, remain operational.
The community battery presents a multitude of benefits that are crucial for the local populace and the environment. It will aid in reducing carbon emissions by facilitating the storage and utilization of renewable energy, thus contributing to the broader goal of decreasing dependence on fossil fuels.
Yackandandah is joined by other towns, including Phillip Island, Queenscliff, Baranduda, and Tatura, in acquiring funding for a community battery. These communities are proactively reducing their carbon footprints while ensuring energy reliability and cost effectiveness for their residents.
Such movements reflect an increasing trend among regional areas to gain control over their energy requirements by investing in renewable energy solutions. With the backing of local governments and community efforts, these towns are pioneering a path towards a more sustainable future.
Yackandandah has already made considerable strides in positioning itself as a green energy center. Beyond the imminent battery installation, the town introduced an electric vehicle (EV) charger in August 2022, further solidifying its commitment to sustainability. This EV charger will align with the community’s renewable energy initiatives, providing clean energy for electric vehicles.
As the global community continues to face the repercussions of climate change, towns like Yackandandah exemplify how communities can take charge of their energy future through the adoption of renewable technologies.
The community battery project in Yackandandah, scheduled for completion by 2025, is part of the Victorian Government’s Neighbourhood Battery Program. This initiative will assist the town in decreasing energy costs, storing surplus solar energy, and providing backup power during outages. With its ongoing sustainability efforts, Yackandandah is setting a benchmark in renewable energy projects in regional Australia, inspiring other communities to follow suit.
The community battery is designed to store surplus solar energy generated during the day and distribute it during peak periods or when grid energy is unavailable. This will lower energy costs, enhance the use of renewable energy, and offer backup power in outages.
The project is funded through the Victorian Government’s 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Program, which provides grants of up to $400,000 per battery installation. Yackandandah secured its funding in the second round of the program.
The project is being led by Totally Renewable Yackandandah (TRY) in partnership with Indigo Power and the Indigo Shire Council. TRY is a community initiative aiming to make Yackandandah fully powered by renewable energy by 2028.
The battery will lower energy expenses by storing excess solar energy for peak demand times, decrease carbon emissions by fostering renewable energy usage, and provide backup power during outages to ensure essential operations persist.
Indeed, towns such as Phillip Island, Queenscliff, Baranduda, and Tatura have also acquired funding through the Neighbourhood Battery Program for community-scale batteries. These initiatives contribute to a larger movement towards localized renewable energy solutions.
The battery is an essential element of Yackandandah’s ambition to achieve 100% renewable energy reliance by 2028. It will store renewable energy, minimize grid dependence, and ensure a steady power supply during emergencies.
We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission which is paid directly to our Australia-based writers, editors, and support staff. Thank you for your support!
Once again, Adobe has expanded the horizons of creativity with the launch of its Firefly Video Model, a generative AI tool poised to transform video editing. This cutting-edge technology aims to ease the intricate challenges faced by video editors, enabling them to accomplish more in a shorter timeframe. But will Adobe outpace OpenAI in unveiling a text-to-video capability?
Adobe’s Firefly Video Model, initially introduced earlier this year, marks a considerable leap forward in generative AI technology. This tool is crafted to aid video editors and filmmakers by automating labor-intensive tasks, allowing them to prioritize creativity over technical challenges.
Picture being able to generate B-roll footage from a straightforward text prompt or effortlessly turn still images into dynamic video clips. That’s precisely what the innovative Firefly Video Model seeks to provide. With features such as Text-to-Video and Image-to-Video, Adobe is establishing itself as a frontrunner in AI-fueled video production.
Later this year, the Firefly Video Model will be integrated into Adobe Premiere Pro, enabling users to access AI capabilities directly within one of the industry’s top video editing software. A highlight of these features is “Generative Extend,” which can address gaps in video, create smooth transitions, and prolong shots for ideal timing—with just a few clicks.
For example, if a scene necessitates a longer hold to synchronize with a musical crescendo, Generative Extend can gracefully extend the shot without needing reshoots or complicated edits. It’s a time-saving feature that could be extremely beneficial for professionals who often operate on tight schedules.
The most thrilling aspect of the Firefly Video Model is likely its capability to generate video content from text or still images. Text-to-Video allows users to enter prompts, modify camera angles, apply motion effects, and more to produce high-quality video clips. This could revolutionize the work of creators needing to produce quick B-roll footage or animations.
In a similar vein, Image-to-Video features will permit editors to enliven still photos or illustrations, converting them into engaging live-action videos. Whether for marketing, social media, or film production, these tools are set to drastically reduce the time required for creating professional-quality content.
A critical element of Adobe’s Firefly models is their dedication to commercial safety. All Firefly models—including the forthcoming Video Model—are solely trained on licensed content that Adobe has the right to use. This ensures that editors and creators can proceed confidently, knowing they are utilizing ethically and legally sound tools.
As generative AI advances, discussions about copyright violation and ethical usage have gained traction. Adobe’s methodology guarantees that Firefly remains a commercially secure option, circumventing the challenges that other generative AI models might encounter.
Adobe has consistently been at the forefront of delivering tools that encourage collaboration among creative teams. The addition of AI-driven features like Firefly is a significant stride in this direction. Built-in tools like Frame.io are already simplifying the review and approval process, and the introduction of AI capabilities will only enhance teamwork efficiency.
For instance, with Firefly’s generative functionality, editors can swiftly prototype scenes, communicate their creative vision to stakeholders, and make updates in real-time. This minimizes friction during the approval process and allows for quicker, more effective production timelines.
Adobe’s Firefly Video Model is poised to transform video editing by harnessing the potential of generative AI. Whether it’s bridging gaps in footage, crafting videos from text prompts, or converting still images into live-action segments, this tool aspires to be an invaluable resource for video professionals. With its integration into Adobe Premiere Pro and a commitment to commercial safety, Firefly is set to lead the way in AI-driven video production.
The Firefly Video Model is Adobe’s new generative AI tool designed to assist video editors by automating processes such as creating video content from text prompts or still images. Its goal is to streamline the video editing experience and enhance creativity.
The Firefly Video Model is anticipated to be accessible later this year and will be incorporated into Adobe Premiere Pro. Users interested can register for the beta version on Adobe’s Firefly website.
Yes, Adobe’s Firefly models are trained exclusively on licensed content that Adobe has permission to use. This guarantees that the content produced is commercially secure and avoids potential copyright issues.
Key features include Text-to-Video, Image-to-Video, and Generative Extend. These functionalities enable users to create videos from text inputs, convert still images into live-action clips, and utilize AI-generated content to fill footage gaps.
Generative Extend is a feature that allows editors to elongate video clips, smooth out transitions, or maintain a shot for longer durations. This is particularly beneficial for addressing gaps in footage or syncing edits perfectly with audio tracks.
Firefly’s generative AI features allow for rapid mock-ups and immediate revisions, enabling creative teams to share ideas with stakeholders more effectively. Coupled with Adobe’s Frame.io, the review and approval workflow becomes much more streamlined.
Indeed, the Firefly Video Model will be included in Adobe Premiere Pro, and is expected to function seamlessly with other Adobe Creative Cloud applications, enhancing interconnected creative workflows.
We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission which is paid directly to our Australia-based writers, editors, and support staff. Thank you for your support!
Kids Wireless Earbuds,Bluetooth 5.0 in Ear Headphones with Dual Mic Cute Panda Design HiFi Stereo Lightweight Earphones for Girls Earphones with Mini Portable Charging Case for Children’S Day Gift
We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission which is paid directly to our Australia-based writers, editors, and support staff. Thank you for your support!
Transurban, a premier toll road operator in Australia, is leveraging the capabilities of artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize its toll collection systems. By incorporating AI into its current framework, Transurban seeks to tackle issues such as unrecognized or missed e-tags, thereby enhancing the experience for the millions of users who travel daily.
With millions of users on Transurban’s toll routes every day, most depend on e-tags for seamless billing. However, not every tag is successfully detected due to technological errors, expired tags, or other reasons. These undetected instances lead to manual processing, which can be both lengthy and error-prone.
To remedy these problems, Transurban has launched an AI-enhanced “auto-correction” model that can analyze images captured by automatic license plate recognition (ALPR) cameras. This system discerns the vehicle’s make, plate number, and location, subsequently cross-referencing this information with customer data to accurately assign a driver and create an invoice. As a result, the company has diminished its dependence on human oversight by as much as 40%, significantly optimizing its operations.
The AI model crafted by Transurban operates on Amazon SageMaker, a machine learning platform that boasts a 99% accuracy level in vehicle identification. This degree of accuracy is vital to prevent billing mistakes that might incite customer dissatisfaction and complaints. The AI framework guarantees proper identification of even those vehicles with challenging-to-read license plates, thereby lowering the likelihood of erroneous billing.
Artak Amirbekyan, Transurban’s chief of data, AI, and machine learning, mentioned that the company handles approximately 2.5 million trips from customers each day. With such an extensive flow of traffic, the AI system has proven transformative, ensuring that the overwhelming majority of users receive accurate bills without needing manual action.
The application of AI at Transurban extends beyond toll collection. The organization is incorporating AI across numerous aspects of its operations, such as road safety, incident detection, and tunnel ventilation. These initiatives aim to enhance the overall driving experience while boosting safety and operational efficiency on roadways.
Tanya Trott, Transurban’s CTO, disclosed that nearly 40% of the workforce is engaged in tech-centric roles, exemplifying the company’s dedication to adopting advanced technologies. “Though we rank among the safest road operators globally, there’s still more work ahead,” stated Trott. “Data is fundamental in enhancing our safety measures further.”
Beyond refining toll collection processes, Transurban is harnessing AI to monitor road safety and identify incidents instantaneously. By processing data from cameras and sensors strategically positioned along the roads, AI systems are capable of pinpointing potential dangers or accidents and notifying relevant authorities without delay. This proactive strategy considerably improves response times and reduces the likelihood of additional accidents.
Tunnel safety represents another critical domain where AI is making a substantial difference. AI systems oversee air quality and ventilation within tunnels, making sure that conditions remain secure for all drivers. By automating these functions, Transurban can swiftly react to shifts in conditions, adjusting airflow to sustain safety benchmarks without needing human oversight.
Transurban’s deployment of AI within its toll collection and road safety strategies emphasizes the increasing significance of technology in infrastructure management. By utilizing AI to refine toll billing, bolster accuracy, and enhance safety initiatives, Transurban not only improves the customer experience but also establishes its status as a pioneer in intelligent road operations. The company’s ongoing commitment to AI and machine learning advancements signals continued progress in road safety and operational efficiency.
The AI framework employs automatic license plate recognition (ALPR) cameras to detect vehicles missed by e-tags. This minimizes the requirement for human action by 40% while ensuring precise billing through data analysis and customer record verification.
Transurban’s AI technology is founded on Amazon SageMaker, a machine learning platform known for its 99% accuracy rating in identifying vehicles via ALPR camera data.
Transurban handles around 2.5 million customer journeys every day across Australia, with the majority billed automatically through its e-tag mechanism.
Yes, Transurban utilizes AI for road safety monitoring, incident analysis, and tunnel ventilation management. These AI technologies are instrumental in assessing road conditions, detecting accidents, and maintaining optimal air quality in tunnels, thereby heightening safety and operational efficiency on the roads.
As per Transurban, the AI technology achieves a 99% accuracy rate in identifying vehicles leveraging ALPR cameras. This exceptional accuracy is crucial in averting billing inaccuracies and customer grievances.
Transurban’s AI systems oversee road safety and promptly detect incidents. By swiftly recognizing accidents or dangers, the AI can alert the appropriate authorities, thereby enhancing response times and mitigating the potential for further incidents.
AI systems continuously assess air quality and airflow in tunnels, making necessary adjustments to ensure safe environments for drivers. This automation facilitates quicker responses to changes within tunnels, guaranteeing safety without manual oversight.
