Australia's first AI and Public Health conference starts tomorrow
Public Health Association of Australia
Media alert
9 November 2026
More than 200 local and international experts will gather this week for Australia’s first event examining Artificial Intelligence and Public Health.
Organised by the Public Health Association of Australia the event in Brisbane / Jagera and Turrbal Country features speakers from universities, CSIRO, and health departments from Australia and overseas.
“Public health is all about stopping bad things from happening at the population level, so in Brisbane this week we’ll explore the good and the bad around this technology commonly called AI,” association CEO, Adj Prof Terry Slevin, said.
“We’ll look at opportunities and risks, how researchers and people working in public health are using AI to solve problems.
“Examples the potential for using AI to make screening faster and more accurate, improving contact tracing, and better health education and communication.
“But of course, there are a whole range of risks about which the community is legitimately concerned.
“We’ll finish the conference with a playful debate on the statement that AI will cause more harm than good, including by using AI models on both sides of the argument.”
The full program is here. Media are invited to attend in person, or register for a virtual pass for access to the plenary sessions. Some organisers and presenters are available for interviews.
WHAT: AI & Public Health Conference 2026
WHERE: voco Brisbane City Centre hotel, 85-87 North Quay, Brisbane
WHEN: 9am-5pm AEST, Tuesday 10 and Wed 11 November 2026
About us:
We’re Australia's peak body for public health and advocate for the health and wellbeing of everyone. We strive to help prevent – rather than cure – illness and disease, at the population level. https://www.phaa.net.au/
Contact details:
Dr Stephen Owen (he/him), PHAA Communications Officer, 0400 169 787, [email protected]
Paris Lord (he/him), PHAA Communications & Media Manager, 0478 587 917, [email protected]