As another fire season kicks off, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) has introduced a groundbreaking tool to combat the increasing threat of wildfires. This time, it’s not a new fleet of helicopters or a fresh batch of volunteers, but a state-of-the-art recruit: artificial intelligence (AI). At the ACT Emergency Services Agency headquarters, fire tower operator Andrew Beer monitors the vast capital region via a remote video camera network. He describes the AI technology as a “major benefit” and “a great backup,” emphasizing its role as a constant, vigilant presence in fire detection.
“Once upon a time, we had people in fire towers on high fire danger days,” Mr. Beer explains. “AI works 24-7, so it’s always there, it’s never asleep, and it’s the first port of call to identify fire incidents.” Rohan Scott, the chief officer of the ACT Rural Fire Service (RFS), echoes this enthusiasm, noting significant improvements in fire detection and intelligence gathering since AI’s introduction.
AI’s Role in Enhancing Fire Safety
The ACT RFS began experimenting with AI assistance just before the devastating summer of 2019-20. Mr. Scott recalls an incident involving a fire tower operator that prompted the exploration of new technologies to enhance safety and capability. “The AI is getting smarter and smarter as we use it,” he says, highlighting its ability to differentiate between fire and other phenomena like dust or steam.
Despite AI’s advancements, concerns remain about its impact on traditional firefighting roles. Mr. Scott reassures that AI serves as a confirmation tool for human decisions, enhancing rather than replacing the expertise of seasoned firefighters.
AI Integration in Public Services
Bettina Konti, interim director general of Digital Canberra, highlights AI’s growing presence in everyday life beyond typical applications like ChatGPT. She stresses the importance of public involvement in AI’s integration across sectors such as fire safety, road monitoring, healthcare, and education.
“AI is here. It will continue to grow and evolve, despite us and without us,” Ms. Konti states. She emphasizes the need for understanding and collaboration to mitigate potential adverse consequences. Human oversight remains crucial, as she warns against blind reliance on AI solutions.
AI’s Transformative Potential in Healthcare
AI’s potential in healthcare is particularly promising. Ms. Konti envisions AI reducing administrative burdens and aiding in disease detection. Purnima Bhat, a gastroenterologist in Canberra, confirms AI’s established role in healthcare, enhancing patient care and improving procedural safety.
“AI has just revolutionised what we’re doing now for patient care in many ways … and it’s improving day by day,” Dr. Bhat says.
While AI-assisted detection increases competence, Dr. Bhat acknowledges that experienced specialists still surpass current AI capabilities. The future, however, holds promise for AI in making precise diagnostic predictions.
AI’s Educational Impact
In the ACT school system, AI is becoming an educational game-changer. While students have informally used AI for assessments, the system is now officially incorporating AI tools for teachers and students. Amaroo School principal Ed Cuthbertson praises AI’s ability to tailor lessons to diverse student needs, particularly for those with English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EALD).
“It’s just an absolute game-changer,” Mr. Cuthbertson says, noting AI’s role in curriculum improvements and elective subject selection.
AI offers teachers more time, though Mr. Cuthbertson warns of the potential for this newfound time to be consumed by other tasks. He stresses the importance of using AI to prioritize meaningful educational experiences over administrative duties.
Despite AI’s capabilities, Mr. Cuthbertson acknowledges concerns about its impact on creativity and critical thinking. “It can do a lot of the doing, but it can’t replace thinking,” he concludes, emphasizing the teacher’s role in fostering student engagement and connection.
As AI continues to evolve, its integration across vital services in the ACT highlights both its transformative potential and the need for careful oversight and adaptation. The ongoing collaboration between technology and human expertise will be crucial in navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
