Australia Tech News Archives

Qantas Revamps Architecture of API Management Platform

David Leane on August 26, 2025

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Qantas Revitalizes API Management Platform

Quick Overview

Qantas updates its API management platform to version 4.1, boosting reliability.
The airline adopts an event-hub architecture to enhance scalability.
Containerization aligns the platform with Qantas’ strategy for immutable infrastructure.
Improved observability and logging aid in better error detection and troubleshooting.
A consolidated API lifecycle management interface provides governance and security.

Qantas Upgrades API Management Platform

Qantas implements architectural improvements to its API management platform

API Platform Development

While addressing WSO2Con Asia 2025 in Sri Lanka, Waleed Ahmed, principal engineer at Qantas IT, emphasized the development of their API management platform. Since 2018, Qantas has utilized the open-source WSO2 API Management platform, undergoing several updates to keep pace with new features.

Shift to Event-Hub Architecture

The update to version 4.1 acted as a trigger for Qantas to shift to an event-hub architecture, removing reliance on disk storage and centralized databases. This transition has empowered Qantas to roll out nimble, stateless platforms and seamlessly expand their data planes.

Containerization and Immutable Infrastructure

Qantas adopted containerization to synchronize with its strategy of immutable infrastructure. This modification led to notable enhancements in security and maintainability, mitigating risks and boosting operational efficiency.

Improved Observability and Security

The platform now boasts advanced observability and logging, delivering richer insights into API traffic and behavior. This improvement assists developers and engineers in troubleshooting and detecting trends or errors proactively.

Integrated API Lifecycle Management

An integrated API lifecycle management interface has been implemented to guarantee that all onboarded APIs comply with governance and security standards. This strategy prevents new APIs from being exposed to the internet until they undergo security evaluations, protecting against potential vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

The thorough modernization of Qantas’ API management platform has produced a highly durable and dependable system, capable of enduring component failures and database challenges. With no outages and minimal critical incidents in the past two years, the platform significantly supports robust community-building endeavors.

Q&A

Q: Why did Qantas decide to revamp its API management platform?

A: The necessity to enhance reliability, scalability, and security drove the revamp, as well as the chance to incorporate new features in WSO2 API Management version 4.1.

Q: How has the event-hub architecture benefited Qantas?

A: It removed the reliance on disk storage and centralized databases, allowing for a more agile, scalable, and resilient platform.

Q: What benefits does containerization provide to the platform?

A: Containerization aligns with Qantas’ immutable infrastructure strategy, improving security, maintainability, and lowering operational risks.

Q: How does enhanced observability optimize platform operations?

A: It offers greater visibility into API traffic, facilitating proactive error detection and trend analysis that help with effective troubleshooting.

Q: What security precautions are implemented for new APIs?

A: New APIs are restricted from internet exposure until they complete security evaluations, ensuring compliance and protection against vulnerabilities.

Telstra Assumes Control of My Health Record’s Data Framework Overhaul

Matthew Miller on August 26, 2025

Telstra Health secures a contract worth $33.2 million to redesign the data architecture of My Health Record.
This initiative will improve data interoperability by utilizing the global FHIR standard.
Telstra is partnering with Leidos Australia and Smile Digital Health for this endeavor.
The project intends to address shortcomings in the exchange of healthcare data.
This transformation is part of ADHA’s overall digital infrastructure plan.

Redesigning My Health Record’s Data Architecture

Telstra’s digital health branch has been granted a $33.2 million contract to redesign the data architecture of the My Health Record system managed by the Australian government. This important project will follow a model for global interoperability aimed at changing the way health data is accessed and shared.

Telstra to spearhead My Health Record data architecture redesign

The Function of FHIR in Healthcare Interoperability

The revamped data architecture will employ Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR), an international standard aimed at making healthcare data modular, accessible, and shareable. This will enable FHIR-based data exchanges within My Health Record, complementing existing Clinical Document Architecture (CDA) formats. The goal of this integration is to support both traditional and modern healthcare systems, ensuring fluid information exchange.

Partnership and Expertise

In this comprehensive project, Telstra Health will join forces with Leidos Australia and Smile Digital Health from Canada. The Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA) states that this project is designed to tackle existing inefficiencies in deriving actionable data from CDA documents, which have hampered seamless data exchange between various systems.

“This announcement underscores Telstra Health’s proficiency and innovative approach to building a health data infrastructure that is ready for the future for Australians,” said ADHA CEO Amanda Cattermole. The collaboration is anticipated to establish a foundation for a more efficient healthcare system within the country.

Transforming Digital Infrastructure

The announcement aligns with ADHA’s tender to unify My Health Record and its API Gateway into a single support and maintenance contract. This action is part of a larger plan to revamp its digital infrastructure and reassess its enduring National Infrastructure Operator (NIO) arrangement, which has been in place with Accenture since 2012. This major tender marks the first competitive bidding process for the $788 million digital infrastructure contract in more than ten years.

Conclusion

Telstra Health’s effort to redesign My Health Record’s data architecture is a crucial move towards modernizing Australia’s healthcare data systems. By harnessing FHIR standards and working with industry specialists, the project aims to improve data interoperability and address existing inefficiencies, ultimately leading to a more effective healthcare ecosystem.

Q: What is the monetary value of the contract given to Telstra Health?

A: Telstra Health has received a contract valued at $33.2 million.

Q: What technology will serve as the foundation for the new data architecture?

A: The new architecture will utilize Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR) to enhance data sharing.

Q: Who are the partners of Telstra Health in this initiative?

A: Telstra Health is partnering with Leidos Australia and Canada’s Smile Digital Health.

Q: What are the primary objectives of the data architecture redesign?

A: The redesign aims to address data extraction inefficiencies and enhance the seamless flow of healthcare information.

Q: What larger strategy is the ADHA implementing in conjunction with this project?

A: The ADHA is reforming its digital infrastructure, which includes a tender to merge My Health Record and its API Gateway into a singular support contract.

UGL Revamps Work Order Planning through Digital Transformation After Securing Significant Electricity Contract

Nicholas Webb on August 25, 2025

UGL’s Digital Revolution in Work Order Management

Quick Overview

UGL implements a digital work order management platform using SAP FSM.
The new system boosts effectiveness and clarity in electricity maintenance tasks.
Power BI integrated for superior reporting and analytics.
Future advancements in automation and AI are anticipated.
Possible growth into additional sectors such as construction.
Cutting-edge data gathering techniques being tested with vehicle cameras.

UGL’s Digital Revamp in Work Order Management

UGL digitized work order management after securing electricity contract

Optimizing Operations with SAP FSM

The engineering services company UGL has initiated a robust digital work order management framework, utilizing SAP field service management (FSM) to improve operations under an electricity maintenance contract in Western Australia. Quality and systems manager Dean Engelbrecht presented the system’s features at the SAP NOW AI summit in Melbourne, emphasizing its function in synchronizing numerous teams statewide to efficiently handle the maintenance and replacement of power poles.

Immediate Monitoring and Intelligent Data Collection

The system enables comprehensive management of work orders, from inception in SAP ECC to planning jobs and dispatching crews. It features a dispatch board for real-time monitoring, permitting back-office teams to track job acceptance, travel, and work conditions through a centralized interface. In the field, digital smart forms are employed for data collection, ensuring proof of completed tasks and streamlining administrative activities.

Improved Reporting and Client Clarity

UGL has embedded sophisticated reporting and analytics capabilities with Power BI, granting clients clear visibility into job advancement and results. This openness has been positively embraced by clients, enhancing trust and collaboration.

Future Opportunities: Automation and AI Integration

In the future, UGL aims to integrate automation within the system to refine job scheduling. This includes utilizing AI capabilities via SAP Joule to further boost productivity. Transitioning from ECC to S/4HANA is planned to facilitate these upgrades.

Innovative Strategies for Asset Maintenance

UGL is also investigating tech-driven methodologies for asset maintenance, including the use of vehicle-mounted cameras for automatic data acquisition of power pole conditions, with the goal of enhancing accuracy and efficiency in identifying and addressing defects.

Conclusion

UGL’s digital transformation in work order management represents a major advancement in enhancing operational efficiency, client clarity, and data management. With ambitions for automation and AI integration, UGL is positioned to broaden its capabilities, potentially influencing other sectors beyond utilities.

Q&A

Q: What is the primary technology defining UGL’s new system?

A: The system is founded on SAP field service management (FSM), interlinked with SAP ECC for complete work order management.

Q: In what way does the system improve client transparency?

A: Clients gain read-only access to real-time dashboards through Power BI, offering clear reporting and analytics of ongoing tasks.

Q: What upcoming enhancements are planned for the system?

A: UGL plans to incorporate automation and AI features, particularly utilizing SAP Joule, to refine job scheduling and operational efficiency.

Q: How is UGL innovating in terms of asset maintenance?

A: UGL is piloting vehicle-mounted cameras for automatic data gathering on power poles, aiming to better defect identification and maintenance precision.

Chief Information Officer of Parliamentary Services Poised to Leave

David Leane on August 24, 2025

DPS Experiences Leadership Shift

Quick Overview

James Lawson, DPS’s CIO, exits after 11 years with the organization.
Temporary arrangements are currently established until a new leader is appointed.
Lawson’s leadership was marked by significant cloud advancements and cost efficiencies.
Announcement for the new CIO anticipated by late August.
Lawson highlighted achievements on LinkedIn, including a zero-trust project.

Leadership Shift in the Technology Division of DPS

CIO of Parliamentary Services announces departure

The Department of Parliamentary Services (DPS) is currently undergoing a notable leadership change due to the resignation of its Chief Information Officer (CIO), James Lawson. After over ten years with the organization, Lawson, who has been on leave since March, has formally resigned. Temporary measures are in place to handle the CIO responsibilities as the department plans to announce a full-time successor by the end of August.

James Lawson’s Contributions at DPS

In his role as CIO, Lawson commended the Information Services Division (ISD) team for their creative methods, moving beyond conventional practices and adopting evidence-driven strategies and modern technologies. Key milestones during his leadership include an impressive 85 percent drop in virtual machines due to a cloud transformation initiative, an 18 percent decrease in operational costs, progress towards a zero-trust security model across the government, and acquiring $90 million in new funding for ICT projects.

Achievements in Cloud Migration and Cost Savings

Lawson’s time was characterized by significant progress in upgrading the digital infrastructure of the department. The successful 85 percent reduction in virtual machines through cloud migration stands out as a major accomplishment, reflecting a dedication to efficiency and modernization. Furthermore, the department experienced a considerable cut in operational expenses, emphasizing the favorable effects of these changes.

Future of Leadership in DPS’ Technology Sector

With Lawson’s exit, the department is looking forward to selecting a new CIO who can enhance these accomplishments and sustain the ongoing momentum. The announcement for the new CIO is slated for before the end of August, representing a crucial juncture for the technological direction of DPS.

Conclusion

The exit of James Lawson as CIO signifies a transitional phase for the Department of Parliamentary Services. His leadership resulted in considerable advancements in cloud technology and cost management, establishing a robust foundation for future development. As DPS prepares to reveal a new CIO, expectations are high for continued innovation and enhancements.

Q: Who is James Lawson?

A: James Lawson was the Chief Information Officer at the Department of Parliamentary Services, serving for more than 11 years.

Q: What accomplishments were noted during Lawson’s time?

A: Notable accomplishments include an 85% reduction in virtual machines, an 18% decrease in operating expenses, advances towards zero-trust, and securing $90 million for ICT initiatives.

Q: What is the current status of the CIO position at DPS?

A: The CIO position is presently covered through interim measures, with a permanent appointment anticipated by the end of August.

Q: What does zero-trust mean, and why is it significant?

A: Zero-trust is a security framework demanding that all users be verified and authorized, enhancing security across governmental functions.

Q: How has the department gained from cloud migration?

A: The cloud migration resulted in an 85% decline in virtual machines, boosting efficiency and lowering costs.

Q: What is the next step for DPS regarding technology leadership?

A: DPS is expected to appoint a new CIO before the end of August to carry forward the enhancements and developments in the technology framework.

CBA Keeps Positions After AI Bot Evaluation

wpengine on August 24, 2025

Commonwealth Bank Maintains Jobs Post AI Assessment

Quick Overview

Commonwealth Bank maintains 45 customer service positions after AI bot evaluation.
The AI bot was initially designed to eliminate certain positions, prompting an assessment.
Staff were presented with options for redeployment or voluntary departure.
Finance Sector Union regards this as a victory but cautions about persistent automation risks.

AI Bot Implementation and Employment Security

CBA to retain roles it had assessed after implementing AI bot

The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has chosen to preserve 45 customer service positions following an extensive review of its newly launched AI ‘voice bot’. Initially, the bank viewed these positions as unnecessary due to the bot’s goal of optimizing incoming call management.

Outcome of Review and Employee Choices

After a three-week analysis, CBA acknowledged that the initial review was flawed and opted against eliminating the roles. Employees holding these positions are now provided the opportunity to remain in their current roles, explore redeployment options within the bank, or select voluntary departure from the company.

Union’s View and Future Consequences

The Finance Sector Union (FSU) celebrated the decision as a substantial win for employees, underscoring the persistent difficulties posed by job automation. The FSU stressed the necessity for employee participation in conversations surrounding technological advancements in the banking industry, along with the critical importance of offering training as job demands change.

Conclusion

The Commonwealth Bank’s choice to retain 45 positions in light of an AI bot review highlights the challenges of balancing technological integration with job security. Though the bank has reversed its prior stance, the larger dialogue on automation and employment persists, carrying substantial implications for the workforce of the future.

Q&A

Q: Why did Commonwealth Bank choose to retain the 45 positions?

A: The bank determined that its initial review did not adequately reflect all business considerations, resulting in the decision to keep the positions.

Q: What options are available to the employees affected?

A: Employees may decide to stay in their current roles, seek redeployment within CBA, or choose voluntary exit.

Q: How did the Finance Sector Union respond to this decision?

A: The FSU regarded the decision as a notable achievement for workers, while also cautioning about the ongoing dangers of job automation in the industry.

Q: What is the wider effect of AI on job security in the banking sector?

A: AI presents challenges to job security by potentially replacing traditional roles, but it also creates opportunities for employees to engage in more strategic roles and enhance their skills.

Discover the Golden Age of Gaming with LASER’s Latest All-in-One Retro Projector

Nicholas Kinports on August 24, 2025

Quick Read

LASER unveils a Retro Gaming Projector equipped with over 80 vintage games.
Offers ROM emulation support for NES, SNES, Mega Drive, and N64.
Includes a pair of wireless controllers and a 120-inch display.
Operates on Android OS with HDMI and USB ports.
Priced at A$299 at major retailers across Australia.

A Trip Down Memory Lane

The Australian electronics brand LASER is bringing the charm of arcade gaming into residences with its latest Retro Gaming Projector. This all-in-one entertainment device comes pre-loaded with over 80 officially licensed classic games, ready to provide big-screen retro excitement anyplace.

ROM Emulator Compatibility

In addition to the built-in game library, the projector features ROM emulator compatibility for legendary consoles like the NES, SNES, Mega Drive, and N64. This functionality allows gamers to experience the joy of classic gaming on any wall space available.

Specifications

The LASER Retro Gaming Projector is crafted for immediate enjoyment. It comes with two wireless controllers, a remote, and a large 120-inch fabric screen. Equipped with built-in speakers, simply power it on to convert your area into a gaming haven.

Connectivity options include HDMI and USB inputs, allowing you to link external devices such as a Nintendo Switch, laptop, or DVD player. You can enhance your sound experience by connecting external speakers. With an Android OS, the projector also functions as a complete entertainment system, granting access to the Google Play Store for additional games and streaming services.

Highlighted Features

80 retro games included: Immerse yourself in a chosen selection of arcade classics, platformers, and fighting games.
Built-in emulators + ROM compatibility: Enjoy gaming across different eras with support for numerous consoles.
Two wireless controllers: Experience hassle-free gaming for solo or multiplayer gameplay.
120” projection: Engage in an immersive, large-screen experience with automatic keystone adjustment.
Android OS: Access streaming platforms and mobile games for a full entertainment experience.
HDMI & USB ports: Easily connect to external content or sound systems.
Portable design: Take it along for an impromptu retro game evening.

The Game Library Offered

The projector provides a broad library ready for play, covering various genres. Racing enthusiasts can enjoy classics such as Street Racer, World Rally, and the Top Racer series. The collection also features sports, action platformers, shooters, and puzzle games, catering to every gaming taste.

Cost and Availability

The LASER Retro Gaming Projector retails in Australia for A$299. It can be acquired from retailers like Harvey Norman, JB Hi-Fi Marketplace, The Good Guys, Bing Lee, and Retravision.

Conclusion

LASER has assembled an appealing offering for fans of retro gaming. With included controllers, a sizable screen, and a rich game library, it serves as a full arcade experience in one package. Its functionality as an Android-powered projector significantly enhances its value. Although ROM support is a significant advantage, compatibility may vary; nonetheless, the pre-loaded 80 games promise ample entertainment right from the start.

Overview

The LASER Retro Gaming Projector provides a nostalgic gaming adventure with contemporary ease. Its pre-installed games, emulator options, and Android features make it a flexible entertainment choice for any home. Offered at a reasonable price, it’s a fantastic option for retro gaming aficionados throughout Australia.

Q&A

Q: What games are provided with the projector?

A: The LASER Retro Gaming Projector comes with more than 80 classic games from various genres, including racing, sports, action platformers, shooters, and puzzles.

Q: Can I connect additional devices to the projector?

A: Absolutely, the projector has HDMI and USB ports that enable connections with devices like a Nintendo Switch, laptop, or DVD player.

Q: Does the projector support modern gaming systems?

A: While it is mainly focused on retro gaming, the HDMI connectivity permits usage with modern gaming systems and other devices.

Q: Is the projector designed for portability?

A: Yes, its portable plug-and-play design allows for straightforward setup anywhere, making it ideal for game nights with friends.

Q: How does the ROM emulator functionality operate?

A: The projector supports ROM emulation for consoles like NES, SNES, Mega Drive, and N64, enabling you to play downloaded games from these platforms.

Q: Where can I buy the LASER Retro Gaming Projector?

A: It is available for purchase in Australia at Harvey Norman, JB Hi-Fi Marketplace, The Good Guys, Bing Lee, and Retravision.

Get Ready for Action, Australia: ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X Handhelds Launch on 16 October

wpengine on August 24, 2025

Quick Read

ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X handheld consoles are set to be released in Australia on 16 October 2025.
The new Handheld Compatibility Program guarantees game availability.
Enhanced shader loading and AI-driven functionalities elevate the gaming experience.
ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless Controller delivers exceptional accuracy.

ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X Handhelds Prepared for Australian Launch

The Australian gaming community is about to witness an exhilarating advancement as the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X handheld consoles are introduced on 16 October 2025. This news was officially revealed during the Xbox presentation at gamescom 2025, offering players the exciting possibility of taking their vast game collections with them wherever they go.

Handheld PC Gaming: A Revolutionary Phase

First presented at the Xbox Games Showcase earlier this year, the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X transcend the concept of mere portable gaming devices; they signify a monumental progression into handheld PC gaming. These gadgets provide effortless access to games from Xbox, Battle.net, and other significant PC platforms, guaranteeing that gamers can enjoy play anytime, anywhere.

Handheld Compatibility Initiative

In support of these innovative devices, Xbox has launched the Handheld Compatibility Program. This program ensures that a greater number of games are instantly playable on your handheld device. Titles in your collection will feature tags such as “Handheld Optimised” or “Mostly Compatible,” simplifying the gaming experience by minimizing setup times.

Upgraded Gaming Features

The ROG Xbox Ally devices are furnished with cutting-edge features. The sophisticated shader delivery framework preloads game shaders as they are downloaded, allowing games to start up to ten times quicker while conserving battery life. Additionally, the ROG Xbox Ally X will soon gain AI-enhanced features like Automatic Super Resolution (Auto SR), which improves game visuals without the need for developer intervention, and highlight reels that document key gameplay moments for easy sharing.

Precision Play with ROG Raikiri II Controller

For gamers who favor classic control schemes, the ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless Controller serves as the perfect companion. Crafted by ASUS, this controller boasts features such as a 1000Hz polling rate in PC mode, anti-drift TMR joysticks, and dual-mode triggers, ensuring accuracy and dependability for all players.

Conclusion

As Australia eagerly awaits the launch of the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X, these devices pledge to transform handheld gaming with their groundbreaking features and integrated game access. The Handheld Compatibility Program, alongside the advanced gaming improvements, positions these handhelds as essential items for dedicated gamers this holiday season.

Q: What is the launch date for the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X in Australia?

A: The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X will be officially available in Australia on 16 October 2025.

Q: What does the Handheld Compatibility Program entail?

A: It is a program initiated by Xbox to make more games available on handheld devices, designated as “Handheld Optimised” or “Mostly Compatible” in your game library.

Q: What are the primary features of the ROG Xbox Ally devices?

A: Primary features include advanced shader delivery for expedited game startups, AI-driven Automatic Super Resolution for enhanced visuals, and highlight reels for showcasing gameplay moments.

Q: What distinguishes the ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless Controller?

A: The controller offers a 1000Hz polling rate in PC mode, anti-drift TMR joysticks, and dual-mode triggers, ensuring high precision and reliability.

Serco Connects Varied Workforce through ServiceNow-Enabled Platform

Nicholas Webb on August 23, 2025

Fast Overview

Serco introduces the Serco Connect application to enhance contractor connectivity throughout Australia.
This application utilizes the ServiceNow platform and incorporates Sysintegra’s ZertID tool.
With Serco Connect, employees can submit leave requests, view payslips, log support inquiries, and complete training requirements.
About 75% of Serco’s workforce is engaged in mobile and site-specific roles.
The application tackles disconnection issues and simplifies HR and IT workflows.

Overview of Serco Connect

Serco has launched its cutting-edge technology, Serco Connect, a mobile application intended to close the communication gap among its widespread contractor workforce in Australia. This strategic initiative seeks to improve connectivity and optimize operations for employees spread across various locations.

Serco facilitates connections for a dispersed workforce through a ServiceNow-supported platform

Capabilities and Features

The Serco Connect application, developed on the ServiceNow platform, offers an extensive array of functionalities. Employees can now submit leave applications, retrieve payslips, report support issues, and fulfill essential training modules from a single interface. This development represents a major enhancement over conventional isolated systems.

Integration with ServiceNow

The fundamental functionality of the application is anchored in its integration with the ServiceNow platform. This supports management of access, identity lifecycle oversight, and governance administration, guaranteeing smooth operations.

Sysintegra’s Contribution to Development

Sysintegra, a specialist in digital identity and access management, was instrumental in the platform’s creation. Its proprietary identity tool, ZertID, provides single sign-on capabilities, allowing employees to effortlessly utilize their contracted company credentials.

Tackling Workforce Issues

During the ServiceNow World Forum in Sydney, Jamie Shields, Serco Asia Pacific’s platform owner for ServiceNow, pointed out that the app’s creation was a direct response to workforce feedback. Numerous employees expressed feelings of disconnection from the organization due to their assignments at various sites and sectors.

Enhancing Service Access

The distributed nature of Serco’s workforce, with around 75% in mobile and site-based positions, created notable difficulties. Routine tasks like checking leave balances or reviewing payslips were often tedious and required HR involvement. The new application streamlines these tasks, enhancing efficiency and reducing time spent.

Joint Development Initiative

The application’s successful rollout in six weeks underscores the collective efforts of Serco’s HR, IT, and cybersecurity teams. Shields underscored the significance of grasping the business challenge and striving for a solution that authentically meets workforce demands.

Conclusion

Serco Connect signifies a major advancement in connecting and empowering Serco’s workforce across Australia. By utilizing ServiceNow and the knowledge of Sysintegra, Serco has tackled critical disconnection issues and optimized HR and IT processes, boosting operational efficiency and employee contentment.

Q: What is the main purpose of the Serco Connect application?

A: The app enables Serco employees to apply for leave, check payslips, log support requests, and complete training modules all from one platform.

Q: How does the app combat employee disconnection?

A: By integrating with ServiceNow and utilizing Sysintegra’s ZertID, the app allows employees to connect with Serco’s systems using their contracted company credentials, thus alleviating feelings of disconnection.

Q: What portion of Serco’s workforce is mobile and site-based?

A: About 75% of Serco’s workforce is engaged in mobile and site-specific roles.

Q: Who were the primary collaborators in the application’s development?

A: The app’s development was a cooperative effort among Serco’s HR, IT, and cybersecurity teams, as well as digital identity expert Sysintegra.

Q: How long was needed to launch the Serco Connect app?

A: The application was created and launched within a six-week period.

Union’s request for compensation arrangements poses a risk to Australia’s AI industry.

David Leane on August 23, 2025

Brief Overview

The Tech Council of Australia (TCA) and the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) examine compensation frameworks for AI-generated content utilization.
The agreement has ignited discussion regarding its potential effect on Australia’s AI industry.
The Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance (MEAA) describes it as a milestone in their ‘Stop Creative Theft’ initiative.
Apprehensions emerge that this initiative could impede AI progress and investment.
MEAA’s requests include the establishment of an AI Act, clarity, and safeguards for Indigenous intellectual property.
Possible repercussions for fields such as healthcare, education, and environmental stewardship.

Union Requests and AI Growth

The Tech Council of Australia (TCA) has disclosed a preliminary accord with the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) to investigate compensation frameworks for content employed in training artificial intelligence systems. This arrangement, unveiled during the Albanese government’s productivity summit, seeks to tackle ethical issues but has faced backlash for possibly obstructing Australia’s AI aspirations.

Unions in the creative sector, spearheaded by the Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance (MEAA), regard the announcement as a notable success in their ‘Stop Creative Theft’ campaign. MEAA Chief Executive Erin Madeley has emphasized the necessity of recognizing the rights of creatives whose creations have been utilized without approval or remuneration.

Potential hindrance to Australia's AI sector

Challenges of Burdensome Requirements

Although the agreement aims to engage unions in negotiating fair compensation, it risks introducing cumbersome requirements that could inhibit AI progress. The MEAA’s requests encompass an all-encompassing AI Act, transparency in data handling, obligatory labeling of AI-generated materials, a tax on major technology firms, protections for Indigenous intellectual property, and regulations against unauthorized digital reproductions.

Such regulations could impose substantial compliance burdens on tech firms, discouraging investment and delaying AI implementation. This might impact domains like healthcare, education, and environmental management, where AI enhances efficiency and innovation.

Possible Effects on Creative Sectors

The agreement also fails to recognize the ways AI enriches creative industries by automating mundane tasks, allowing artists and journalists to concentrate on more valuable endeavors, and democratizing content creation. Enforcing sweeping restrictions based on unverified allegations of “theft” could splinter the market, placing Australia at a disadvantage compared to global players that promote free AI advancement.

Conclusion

The initial agreement between the TCA and ACTU to consider compensation frameworks for AI content utilization has provoked considerable discussion. While aiming to resolve ethical dilemmas, this move poses a threat to Australia’s AI development and innovation. Creative unions, including the MEAA, celebrate it as a substantial achievement, yet the danger of increased compliance costs and regulatory overreach could hinder investment and progress in vital industries. A balanced strategy is essential to ensure that AI can flourish without excessive restraints.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the intent behind the TCA and ACTU agreement?

A: The agreement seeks to investigate compensation models for content utilized in AI training, addressing ethical issues and labor rights.

Q: What criticisms have been raised against the agreement?

A: Detractors claim it may create burdensome requirements that could stifle AI growth and investment in Australia.

Q: What are the key demands of the MEAA?

A: The MEAA’s demands include an AI Act, transparency, mandatory labeling, levies on tech companies, and Indigenous IP protections.

Q: How could the agreement influence critical sectors in Australia?

A: Elevated compliance costs and excessive regulation could deter investment, impacting sectors like healthcare, education, and environmental management where AI promotes innovation.

Q: What are the implications for the creative sector?

A: Overregulation could disrupt the market and restrict the benefits AI offers by automating tasks and enabling higher-value endeavors.

Q: What should be the focus going forward?

A: A balanced approach that protects innovation and allows AI to thrive without unnecessary obstacles is vital.

Chemist Warehouse Employs AI to Enhance HR Inbox Administration

Nicholas Webb on August 23, 2025

Chemist Warehouse Utilizes AI for Improved HR Productivity

Brief Overview

Chemist Warehouse employs AI to address HR questions for its 30,000 employees and store operators.
The AI tool, AIHRA, automates the creation of responses for HR inquiries.
AIHRA connects with information sources such as Fair Work Australia for precise data.
The AI tool saves the HR team roughly 1950 hours each year.
AIHRA was created in collaboration with Microsoft partner Insurgence AI utilizing Microsoft Azure.
Chemist Warehouse is concentrating on AI governance and swift value extraction.

AI-Driven HR Productivity at Chemist Warehouse

AI improves HR inbox handling at Chemist Warehouse

Image credit: Chemist Warehouse/Microsoft.

Chemist Warehouse, a prominent discount pharmacy chain, has transformed its human resources (HR) functions by implementing an artificial intelligence (AI) system known as AIHRA in its shared email inbox. This groundbreaking initiative, launched at the beginning of 2025, seeks to streamline HR inquiries from its large workforce of 30,000 employees and store operators by automating the preliminary drafting of responses.

The Development of AIHRA

AIHRA, fondly called “she” by the HR team, has undergone considerable growth since its launch. Initially dubbed ‘baby AIHRA’, it has advanced to ‘intern AIHRA’, demonstrating its capability to address a wider variety of HR-related issues such as leave requests, probation oversight, and performance conversations. This development reflects the continuous enhancements made during the year.

Integration and Capabilities

AIHRA is crafted to integrate flawlessly with external data sources, including Fair Work Australia. This connection guarantees that the AI system can access contemporary award documents and enterprise bargaining contracts, along with internal guidelines. Within half a minute of receiving an inquiry, AIHRA formulates a response, which is then evaluated by an HR advisor before dispatch, ensuring both rapidity and precision.

Efficiency and Time Savings

The introduction of AIHRA has resulted in notable time savings for Chemist Warehouse’s HR advisory team. By handling up to 300 email inquiries each week, the AI system is projected to save the team around 1950 hours annually. This efficiency empowers the HR advisors to concentrate on more complicated and urgent assignments.

Strategic Implementation of AI

Created in partnership with Microsoft affiliate Insurgence AI, AIHRA utilizes Microsoft Azure AI Foundry and the Power Platform. Chemist Warehouse is dedicated to a structured approach to AI, balancing governance with immediate business advantages. This strategy includes a scalable AI governance model that aligns with the organization’s long-term objectives while achieving quick successes across various business segments.

Conclusion

Chemist Warehouse’s strategic application of AI in HR inbox management illustrates the potential of technology to boost operational efficiency. By automating repetitive tasks, the pharmacy chain not only conserves time but also enables its HR team to focus on more strategic projects. This example underscores the significance of AI integration in contemporary business practices, establishing a benchmark for others to emulate.

Q: What is AIHRA and what is its purpose?

A: AIHRA is an AI-based system utilized by Chemist Warehouse to automate the initial drafting of responses to HR inquiries, incorporating data sources to guarantee accurate and efficient information delivery.

Q: What amount of time does AIHRA save the HR team each year?

A: AIHRA is estimated to save the HR advisory team around 1950 hours yearly by automating standard email query responses.

Q: What technologies were used to develop AIHRA?

A: AIHRA was developed in collaboration with Microsoft partner Insurgence AI, utilizing Microsoft Azure AI Foundry and the Power Platform.

Q: How does AIHRA guarantee the accuracy of its responses?

A: AIHRA connects with third-party data sources such as Fair Work Australia to access current award documents and agreements, ensuring that the provided information is correct and relevant.

Q: What is the strategic strategy of Chemist Warehouse regarding AI implementation?

A: Chemist Warehouse is implementing a structured approach to AI, emphasizing scalable governance and immediate business impact, focusing on high-feasibility, high-value use cases for rapid victories aligned with long-term goals.