NSW politicians connected with UNSW Sydney experts to discuss groundbreaking research and solutions to some of the state's key challenges.
UNSW Sydney's leading researchers, innovators and educators joined politicians and policymakers at NSW Parliament House last week to explore some of the state's most pressing issues and opportunities.
The Powered by UNSW Showcase brought together more than 40 experts, who shared research and education initiatives across 10 priority areas, including housing, healthcare, AI and sustainability.
UNSW Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Attila Brungs said the second annual NSW Parliament showcase highlighted the value of bringing researchers, educators and policymakers together to tackle pressing issues.
"Many of the challenges facing New South Wales are complex and interconnected. They require evidence, expertise and collaboration across disciplines, sectors and government," he said.
"This showcase is an opportunity to share the ideas, research and innovation that can help inform policy, strengthen communities and create new opportunities for the state. From housing and healthcare to clean energy, AI and workforce capability, universities have a responsibility to help translate research into practical solutions that deliver long-term public benefit.
"We look forward to continuing to work with government to help build a more prosperous, resilient and equitable future."
Vice-President, Societal Impact, Equity & Engagement Professor Verity Firth, said meaningful partnerships are central to ensuring UNSW's research and innovation deliver lasting benefits for communities.
"Some of the most important conversations happen when research meets practice. Events like this help move ideas beyond the laboratory and the classroom, bringing together the people who can help turn knowledge into action."
Dr Sue Keay (right) operates a robot as guests look on, including MP Anoulack Chanthivong (centre), Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology. Photo: UNSW Sydney
UNSW leading researchers, innovators and educators joined politicians and policymakers at NSW Parliament House. Photo: UNSW Sydney
Dr James Dunn (front) takes MP Clayton Barr and UNSW Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Attila Brungs through an AI image detection test.. Photo: UNSW Sydney
Jade Curtis, Shadow Minister for Health Sarah Mitchell, Professor Verity Firth, Professor Jason Abbott, Professor Leanne Holt and Adrian Piccoli from consulting firm Korn Ferry. Photo: UNSW Sydney
Dr Rong Deng talks solar recycling with Member for Coogee Dr Marjorie O'Neill. Photo: UNSW Sydney
More than 40 experts attended the event at NSW Parliament House. Photo: UNSW Sydney
Collaborating to solve challenges
UNSW AI Institute Director Dr Sue Keay spoke with policymakers on the opportunities and challenges presented by AI, and the tools that need to be put in place to support the workforce and broader public as they adapt to using it.
"It's a wonderful opportunity to engage with politicians and understand more about their concerns and those in their electorate," Dr Keay said.
"We've had discussions on how Parliament itself can be adapting to artificial intelligence ... and interesting discussion around AI governance and how we can make sure that these technologies can be safely deployed."
MPs had the chance to test their own AI detection capabilities with Dr James Dunn, who was running a quiz displaying a mix of real and AI-generated faces.
"They were able to see firsthand how challenging it has become to tell what is real and what is fake ... and how that creates vulnerabilities in a lot of different parts of our society," he said.
Dr Rumana Hossain from the Centre for Sustainable Materials Research and Technology (SMaRT) showcased how innovative recycling technologies can transform difficult-to-recycle waste streams - including waste glass, textiles, plastics, electronic waste and battery waste - into tiles, plastic filament and metal alloys.
"We focus on problematic waste streams that cannot feasibly be processed through conventional recycling systems and develop new pathways to recover their value for manufacturing," she said.
"This was a valuable opportunity to show MPs how waste can be turned into new raw materials and products, while supporting local manufacturing and the transition towards a circular economy and a net-zero future."
For sixth-year medical students Liam Tuohey and Nithya Matthew, it was a chance to highlight the benefits of their training at UNSW's Rural Clinical Campus in Wagga Wagga, but also some of the pressures faced by students.
"Training in Wagga Wagga is fantastic," said Nithya. "We're learning from specialists who are so skilled in their areas and are so dedicated to teaching.
"Regional healthcare is an area of need, and training doctors in regional areas is a great way to meet that need, so being able to share our experience with MPs and others has been great."
Liam added: "We shared a bit about what we do at our rural campus, and how our experience has been, but also the need for paid placements for medical students to help better support them. It's good to have a voice in a place like this where people can listen to our unique issues."
Member for Coogee Dr Marjorie O'Neill said UNSW's research and innovation continue to make a significant contribution to the state.
"UNSW is home to some of Australia's leading researchers, educators and innovators, and it's important that Parliament has opportunities to engage directly with the ideas and expertise helping shape our state's future. I'm proud to support an event that strengthens those connections and highlights the outstanding work happening here in our local community."
