Deakin plugs $30 million investment into making better AI

Deakin University is attempting to pushing the boundaries of what is possible between human interactions and artificial intelligence (AI) with an investment of almost $33 million.

The Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute (A²I²) was launched at the university’s Burwood campus earlier this month.

Deakin Vice Chancellor Professor Jane den Hollander said A²I² (pronounced “A squared, I squared”) had a particular emphasis on developing the partnership between the human user and the AI system, and would explore how AI can present information that builds trust, is easily comprehensible, useful and timely.

“The ability of machines to imitate intelligent human behaviour is already part of our lives – just ask Siri, Alexa or Google.

“AI is helping hospital trauma centres make faster, better decisions, and researchers develop improved materials for manufacturing.

“Much is made of the potential for AI to replace human intelligence, but AI’s true potential lies in its capacity to enhance human abilities rather than replace them.

“We’re not building robots to take the place of humans, but we are creating technology that will work alongside people to help them make more informed and better decisions.”

A²I² merges the capabilities of the university’s Pattern Recognition and Data Analysis (PRaDA) and the Deakin Software and Technology Laboratory (DSTIL), bringing together all aspects of its AI research and development from fundamental science to how it translates into commercial products for real-world application.

Victorian Minister for Jobs, Innovation and Trade Pakula welcomed the work of the institute and Deakin’s commitment to AI research.

“Victoria is proudly leading the way as Australia’s home of tech and innovation and our success is supported by world-class universities such as Deakin,” he said.