Our Research

BRAIN conducts ongoing research into the impact of artificial intelligence on the Ballarat region. Our research is governed by our Advisory Board, which is a broad section of the community with skills, knowledge, and ideas about the future.

Below are our key publications and research findings.

The Impact of AI on the broader Ballarat Region

The Impact of AI on the broader Ballarat Region

2025

This position paper explores how AI advancements will affect the Ballarat region, examining job displacement risks, economic transformation opportunities, and strategies to manage the transition. The document highlights how the current wave of AI will impact professional workers unlike previous automation waves that primarily affected blue-collar jobs, and provides recommendations for leveraging AI while reducing negative impacts.

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The Social Licence to use AI

The Social Licence to use AI

2025

This research report examines the social and ethical dimensions of AI adoption in the Ballarat region. Key findings highlight inadequate infrastructure and skills for AI adoption, major concerns about ethical impacts and data privacy, and fears around job displacement. The research specifically notes that 64% of healthcare professionals identified data privacy as a significant concern, while 71% raised issues about fairness and accountability in AI systems.

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Upcoming Research

Our research team is currently working on additional studies focusing on:

  1. Industry-specific AI adoption strategies for the Ballarat region
  2. AI literacy and education needs assessment
  3. Regional infrastructure requirements for AI integration

Check back for updates or contact us to learn more about our ongoing research initiatives.