Governments and Councils

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Intro:
Public sector leadership plays a vital role in ensuring that the AIoT revolution benefits all communities — not just the tech-savvy few. This breakout session brings together thought leaders from government, academia, and indigenous advocacy to explore how AIoT is being governed, adopted, and debated across public institutions. From the practical integration of emerging technologies in councils to addressing concerns around existential risk and data ownership, this session highlights the critical balance between innovation and responsibility in the public realm.

What to Expect:

• The role of national alliances and policy frameworks in enabling AIoT growth

• Insights into how citizens perceive AI risks — and how that shapes governance

• The importance of data sovereignty in tech design and deployment

• Challenges and success stories from local governments implementing smart solutions

• How councils and governments can lead inclusive, human-centred digital innovation

Who Should Attend:

• Local and Central Government Representatives

• Council CIOs, CTOs, and Innovation Teams

• Civic Tech and Smart City Planners

• Policy Makers and Public Administrators

• Indigenous Leaders and Advocates for Data Sovereignty

• Researchers in Political Science, Ethics, and AI Governance

• Tech Providers and Consultants working with the Public Sector

• NGOs and Community Organisations focused on digital inclusion

Speakers:

• Frank Zeichner, CEO, IoT Alliance Australia – “AIoT: The Next Big Shift”

• Fabrizio Gilardi, Professor of Political Science, University of Zurich – “Existential Risks vs. Everyday Harms: What People Really Fear About AI”

• Karaitiana Taiuru, Director, Taiuru & Associates – “Māori Data Sovereignty in AI Projects and the Broader Tech Landscape”

• Suzanne Boyd, Chief Executive Officer, Taituarā – “Tech in Local Government: The Challenges and the Opportunities”

• Jannat Maqbool, Strategic Advisor, Y5 – “From Sensors to Services: Governing an ‘AIoT Digital Commons’ for Smart Cities”

Breakout Co-Chair:

• Colart Miles – Managing Partner, Opal3