Whether it’s writing uni assignments, designing your next playlist, or helping your kids with their homework, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is fast becoming part of everyday life. But as this technology advances, big questions are emerging: How far will AI go? What risks does it bring? And how can we harness it to make life better, not worse?
This month, one of Perth’s most thought-provoking events will take on these very questions.
A Night of Innovation // The Fifth Industrial Revolution, happening Wednesday, June 18th at the WA Museum Boola Bardip, will be an unmissable evening exploring the future of AI and how it will shape our lives, industries, and communities here in WA.
Presented by Edith Cowan University, the event brings a night of bold ideas, live debate, and future-focused conversation — whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a curious creative, or just wondering what this whole AI revolution really means for you.
What’s the Fifth Industrial Revolution?
You’ve probably heard of the Industrial Revolution — the steam engines, factories, and inventions that changed the world. The Fifth Industrial Revolution is the fifth iteration of what comes next: a future where human creativity and intelligence work hand-in-hand with advanced AI to drive innovation. Think humans and machines collaborating — in business, health, education, entertainment, and more.
It’s a world full of possibilities, but also important questions. That’s exactly what this event will explore.
What to expect on the night
Hosted by the always-energetic Perth technologist Andy Lamb, the evening will feature a keynote presentation from Nathan Moane (Worley), sharing how one of the world’s major companies is using AI to drive transformation.
A live panel discussion will then dive into some fascinating topics:
- Can humans and machines really collaborate?
- What’s the truth about AGI (Artificial General Intelligence)?
- What are the real risks and opportunities of AI?
- And here’s a fun one — could AI literally make our brains smaller?
Panellists include Lisa Longman (Bloom), Dr Laurie Hughes (ECU), and Sophie Bull (Frog) — experts who’ll bring a range of insights from industry, academia, and the creative world.
You’ll also hear from three exciting WA startup founders who are already using AI in ways you might not expect:
- Christopher Smith, Ellis — using AI for engineering
- Emily Zaborski, Vendaly — transforming food and drink vendor operations
- Josh Horneman, Howll AI — helping businesses automate tasks and protect their data
And with plenty of opportunities to mingle with local entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators, it’s also a great night for meeting like-minded people and sparking new ideas.
Why you should go
Whether you love it or fear it, AI is going to impact almost every part of life: work, creativity, health, and even how we socialise. And it’s happening fast.
A Night of Innovation is a rare chance to hear from people who are deep in this space, ask your own questions, and come away with a better understanding of what the future could look like — and how WA might lead the way in ethical innovation.
Plus, it’s always fun to spend a night under the whale at the WA Museum, with good conversation, inspiring people, and maybe a few surprises.
Tickets are available now — don’t miss your chance to be part of this fascinating conversation.
Event Details
Date: Wednesday, June 18th 2025
Time: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Venue: WA Museum Boola Bardip
