AI crocodile detection system comes with warning
A high-tech solution to deal with Australia's most ancient predators is ready for real-world trials, but comes with a warning about what lurks beneath.
science and technology
Industry bailouts defended as Iran war smashes markets
Industry Minister Tim Ayres has outlined the government's industry-science strategy, saying global instability and the conflict in Iran demands stronger ties.
‘Flashing red’: climate imbalance reaches all-time high
Energy in must equal energy out for a stable climate, but the balance is increasingly off kilter with troubling, long-lasting consequences.
Aussies could miss big payday due to basic AI skills
Millions of Australian workers are using artificial intelligence tools with only a basic understanding, and could boost their salaries with more training.
Homemade chips: $20m boost for Aussie quantum leader
A company planning to create the world's first commercial quantum computer will get a multimillion-dollar boost to achieve it in Australia.
Wet year brings on-land nature wins but oceans suffer
Australia's environment has enjoyed another above-average year of rainfall, though climate change has been stressing oceans and vulnerable species.
Aussies to build GPS alternative for self-driving cars
Cars, rockets and mining vehicles could drive themselves even when the global positioning system goes dark if a Sydney company succeeds in its mission.
High-power pit stop: quantum batteries could rev up EVs
The next generation of batteries could power up electric cars within minutes and Australian researchers have developed a world-first proof-of-concept.
Gassy, koala-threatening coal mine gets state stamp
Environmental groups are urging the federal government to act to prevent a coal mine emitting methane pollution and destroying koala habitat.
Aussie firm to roll out AI-in-a-box in regional areas
A network of portable data centres could be installed throughout Australia's regions as part of a plan to power artificial intelligence with renewable energy.
Rice could be key ingredient to cutting steel emissions
Steel producers could cut carbon emissions in half by substituting agricultural waste for coal in its production, a world-first trial has found.
Carbon credit rewards MIA for Indigenous stewards
Rules that ensure carbon credits only go to new emissions removal could be penalising the long-term conservation efforts of First Nations people.
Aussie researchers create a robot vacuum for oil spills
A prototype is no larger than a shoe but Australian engineers plan to supersize their oil-consuming robot to tackle sea pollution.
Driving change: inside the autonomous car revolution
More self-driving cars will navigate streets around the world this year but some are yet to be convinced the technology is roadworthy.
Tech giant plans 800 million AI gadgets by Christmas
If your smartphone does not feature artificial intelligence, it could add the technology soon, with one manufacturer planning to double down on its investment.
Flying taxis poised to swoop down for Brisbane Olympics
Once promised in science fiction, flying taxis are expected to become reality within months and Australia is among the candidates to host them.
Why the best way around traffic may be flying above it
Australia has been promised a future filled with flying taxis before but the innovative machines may finally be approaching take-off.
Earth’s doppelganger: scientists make $15m digital twin
From stress-testing crops to simulating disease outbreaks, researchers plan to create a virtual copy of Australia's agricultural landscape to test scenarios.
Digging it: the dopamine hit hiding beneath our feet
Soil influences what we eat, what we wear and maybe even what we feel, with one Australian scientist on a mission to help us all dig a little deeper.
Not a real doctor: AI struggles to treat human patients
Tasked with identifying common medical conditions and recommending treatment, artificial intelligence can deliver deadly advice.
Tech companies campaign to bring SXSW back to Australia
Brisbane might have secured the Olympic Games but a grassroots campaign is asking the state government to consider adopting another big event.
Australia’s quantum leap: $20m boost for homegrown firm
Quantum technology that promises to outsmart artificial intelligence could be made in Australia after an investment in a Sydney company.
Taking a swing: Aussie Open serves AI insights to fans
Tennis-talking robots, virtual reality matches and an innovation to let visually impaired fans follow the action are being tested at the Australian Open.
It’s not just you: fake videos look more real than ever
Artificially intelligent image creation tools are becoming more sophisticated and easier to use but that is making it harder to tell what is real online.
The chatbot will see you now: why AI is tackling health
After being swamped with medical questions, one AI firm is trialling a dedicated health service. Experts say more are coming and their prognosis is unclear.
What’s for dinner? Aussies cook up fresh uses for AI
Australians are turning to artificial intelligence tools in the kitchen as well as the office, as use of the technology weighs in on more activities.
Stacking solar cells could deliver cheaper power
A material touted as a candidate for next-generation solar technology is showing more promise, with Australian scientists behind its success.
AI is boosting scientific careers but shrinking studies
Artificial intelligence could be good for scientists but bad for science as a whole, a study has found, as it narrows the scope of research.
Unions reach deal with tech giant on AI and workers
Workers will have a say in the rollout of AI through an agreement between a tech giant and unions that has been welcomed by industry and government.
Aussies are using AI at home but want rules at work
Most workers in fields such as finance, technology and law are using artificial intelligence at home but want changes to make it safer to use on the job.
Quietly dying: few forests spared from tree losses
Australian forests are thinning in a worrying finding for a world relying on plants to help soak up excess atmospheric carbon.