Local businesses are building the skills and confidence to use AI, following a workshop at Club Five Dock RSL on Wednesday, 29 April aimed at making emerging technology more accessible.
The session featured Dr Isaac Donnelly, General Manager of Intelligent Contacts at Optus, who provided an introduction to understanding AI.
The workshop explored how tools like ChatGPT work, why they can sometimes be unreliable, and how businesses can use them effectively. Attendees also learned how to combine multiple AI tools, understand their limitations, and apply them in real-world business contexts.
City of Canada Bay Mayor Michael Megna said the workshop reflects Council's ongoing commitment to supporting local businesses to innovate and grow.
"Our local businesses are at the heart of a strong and resilient City of Canada Bay," Mayor Megna said.
"This workshop is about giving business owners skills and knowledge - helping them understand how AI works and how they can use it to improve their operations and stay competitive."
Mayor Megna said events like this are designed to ensure local businesses feel supported as new technologies continue to evolve.
"We know that AI can feel complex or even overwhelming, particularly for small businesses," he said.
"That's why it's so important to provide opportunities like this - where businesses can hear directly from industry experts, ask questions and build confidence in a supportive environment."
The workshop forms part of a business event series, designed to strengthen and support the local business community.
"We're committed to delivering practical, relevant support that helps our businesses adapt, grow and succeed," Mayor Megna added.
"By connecting our business community with industry leaders and new ideas, we're helping to create a more innovative and future-ready local economy."
