‘What Happens Next?’: Can We Create a Better Reality?

There’s no doubt that technological advancements such as artificial intelligence and robotics are reshaping our reality. While many of us may feel a bit trepidatious about this brave new world, leading experts are pointing to unprecedented opportunities for social good – as long as we get the governance and implementation right.

In the latest episode of Monash University’s What Happens Next? podcast, host Dr Susan Carland explores the transformative potential of emerging technologies. Following last week’s examination of the challenges and risks inherent with AI, robotics and other new tech, this episode shifts focus to examine how these powerful tools could help us build a more equitable future.

Dr Carland’s joined by world-leading experts in AI, robotics, philosophy and Indigenous technology innovation to understand how we might harness these technologies for social good.

Economic promise meets social impact

The transformative potential of AI extends far beyond efficiency gains. According to futurist Dr Ben Hamer, host of the ThinkerTank podcast, recent Australian government research suggests AI could contribute up to $600 billion annually to the national economy. But the real promise lies in how these technologies could help solve some of humanity’s most pressing challenges.

Professor Joanna Batstone, Director of the Monash Data Futures Institute, highlights groundbreaking applications in healthcare and climate action. From accelerating drug discovery to monitoring global bushfire impacts, AI is already demonstrating its capacity to tackle complex societal challenges.

Listen: Will AI Cut Us Off From Reality?

Reshaping tomorrow’s workforce

Professor Batstone says the future of work is undergoing a fundamental transformation. While AI will automate many labour-intensive tasks, the focus is shifting to how it can enhance rather than replace human capabilities. Educational institutions are adapting accordingly – Monash, for example, has taken a clear stance on preparing students for an AI-integrated future, teaching responsible AI use, and helping students understand both the capabilities and limitations of these technologies.

Even the nature of technical education is evolving. “We're moving to a world of AI development that is no-code or low-code,” she says, suggesting that future developers may need different skill sets than traditional programming. Nevertheless, fundamental human attributes – logic, reasoning and problem-solving – will remain crucial for the workers of tomorrow.

“We can't predict the future with AI, but one thing I'm very sure of is, AI is not going to go away. And so we have to look at how do we optimise for benefit? How do we optimise for social good and think through some of the risks and challenges that inevitably we'll have to tackle.” – Professor Joanna Batstone

Revolutionising healthcare and agriculture

Professor Geoff Webb, from Monash's Faculty of Information Technology, points to AI’s life-changing potential in developing regions. He cites a recent innovation in Kenya where an AI-powered crop monitoring system, costing just $3 monthly, helps farmers combat crop diseases and pests – a solution to a problem that currently destroys one-third of the country's crops.

Professor Chris Lawrence, Associate Dean, Indigenous, in the faculties of Information Technology and Engineering, emphasises the importance of embedding Indigenous knowledge systems into emerging technologies. This “coding for culture” approach ensures new technology truly serves its intended users.

This philosophy is now being integrated into Monash IT and engineering curriculum. All students, including non-Indigenous ones, will graduate with an Indigenous graduate attribute, understanding how to work with Indigenous people and address social, emotional and wellbeing issues through computer sciences and engineering. Importantly, this isn’t about adding token content – all materials are peer-reviewed and specifically aligned with the technical subjects students are studying.

Read more: Star man: From a childhood dream to an Indigenous academy shooting for space

The future of robotics and human connection

Dr Sue Keay, chair of Robotics Australia Group, envisions a future where robots adapt to human environments rather than the reverse. She explains that while humanoid robots capable of complex household tasks such as washing dishes might still be some way off, the first generation of home robots could provide valuable services, particularly in elder care.

“For a lot of people, having interactions with a robot may be more comfortable than having interactions with a human,” Dr Keay notes, explaining how robots could offer non-judgmental support and monitoring.

She envisions robots serving as personal assistants, helping with tasks such as picking up items before vacuum cleaning, and providing peace of mind for families with elderly relatives by monitoring for falls or other emergencies, potentially revolutionising home care and support services.

Building ethical guardrails

While the potential benefits are immense, experts acknowledge the need for robust governance frameworks. Professor Batsone stresses that alongside legislation, there must be broader societal engagement in conversations about responsible AI use and development.

Professor Webb argues for specific legislation targeting potential misuses, such as preventing the creation of libellous deepfake content. This approach would help protect against nefarious uses while allowing beneficial applications to flourish.

Strengthening democracy in the digital age

Associate professors Stephanie Collins and Ben Wellings offer a nuanced perspective on AI’s role in democratic processes. Rather than viewing AI solely as a threat to electoral integrity, they suggest it could enhance democratic participation when properly implemented.Associate Professor Collins argues that future AI systems might even help facilitate more informed and ethical decision-making in governance, provided they’re developed with appropriate oversight and transparency.

The key, according to both experts, lies in maintaining diverse information sources and encouraging genuine dialogue across political divides – something technology could help facilitate rather than hinder.

Read more: ChatGPT: Old AI problems in a new guise, new problems in disguise

The path forward

“We can't predict the future with AI, but one thing I'm very sure of is, AI is not going to go away,” says Professor Batsone. “We have to look at how we optimise for benefit and social good while thinking through the risks and challenges.”

The experts agree that success lies in balancing innovation with responsible development. This includes:

• Implementing appropriate legislation and governance frameworks
• Ensuring inclusive technology design
• Maintaining human judgment and oversight
• Fostering critical thinking skills
• Supporting diverse perspectives in technology development

With proper guidance and purposeful implementation, AI and emerging technologies could help create a better reality for all.

Want to be part of this positive technological future? Monash’s AiLECS Lab is seeking submissions for its “My Pictures Matter” campaign, which helps train AI systems to combat child exploitation while protecting law enforcement officers from exposure to harmful content.

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