Meet our 2025 Speakers
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Aaron Alphonso
Sydney Opera House
Ash Nair
iCare NSW
Cal Mayhook
Vocus
Cat McGinn
Unmade
Donna Forlin
nbn
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Eloy Gonzales
Murrumbidgee Irrigation
Fernando Mourão
Seek
Gaby Carney
University of Technology Sydney
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Gemma Kyle
Rest
Iain Hart
Crown Resorts
Kiefer Casamore
Eleven PR
Lee Hickin
The National AI Centre
Lucio Ribeiro
TBWA\Australia
Mal Wanstall
Cochlear
Olga Lysenko
Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
Rasika Mohan
IEEE
Richard Sanchez
Nine
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Rohan Samaraweera
Department of Home Affairs
Sarah McAvoy
CyberUnlocked
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Scott Thomson
SCRYPTID
Susan Gibson
University of Technology Sydney
Sarah McAvoy
FounderCyberUnlocked
Sarah McAvoy is the Founder and Managing Director of CyberUnlocked, a Sydney-based consultancy helping Australian organisations navigate complex cyber security and AI safety challenges. With over 2 decades of experience across enterprise, government, and SMB sectors, she is a CISM certified consultant and ISO 27001 Lead Auditor, known for translating regulatory obligations into practical business strategies.
Sarah leads CyberUnlocked’s AI Security services, supporting clients in areas such as AI governance, red-teaming, and model risk assessment. She also represents Australia at the Global Council for Responsible AI, championing ethical, transparent, and accountable AI practices.
Sarah brings together leaders in regulation, security, and technology to address emerging AI risks and standards. A recognised thought leader and speaker, she is committed to embedding trust and resilience in both traditional cyber security and evolving AI ecosystems.
Speaking at
7 August, 08:50
Opening Remarks from the Chair
Rohan Samaraweera
Senior Director - Data ScienceDepartment of Home Affairs
Rohan Samaraweera leads the Data Science branch at the Department Of Home Affairs where he works to mature, modernise and broaden Department artificial intelligence, machine learning and data science capabilities. Under his leadership the branch has evolved into an agile and adaptive team leveraging the unique data, expertise, and intersecting missions within the Department to create public good. The branch continues to expand its analytics capabilities and services to support a broader range of portfolio areas, domestic and international partners.
Prior to joining Home Affairs, Rohan had a career as a Signals Intelligence Officer with the Australian Signals Directorate, operating in the nexus between data, technology and intelligence tradecraft in support of military and counter-terrorism operations.
Speaking at
7 August, 09:00
Creating an effective AI governance framework
Lee Hickin
Executive DirectorThe National AI Centre
Lee Hickin is the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Microsoft Australia and New Zealand (ANZ), responsible for driving Microsoft's technical strategy and innovation across the region. With over 20 years of experience in the technology industry, Lee is a seasoned leader and strategist who has a deep understanding of how technology can help businesses transform and grow.
Prior to joining Microsoft, Lee held various senior leadership positions in technology companies, including serving as the Chief Technology Officer for both SaaS-based and managed services businesses. Lee is passionate about empowering individuals and organizations to achieve more through technology, and has been a champion for digital transformation across various sectors.
At Microsoft ANZ, Lee is responsible for driving Microsoft's technical vision and strategy, and leading a team of experts who are focused on delivering innovative solutions that help businesses and individuals achieve more. Lee is a frequent speaker at industry events and is regularly featured in the media sharing his insights on the latest technology trends.
Lee holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and Mathematics from the University of Auckland, and a Master of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Otago. When he's not busy exploring the latest technology advancements, Lee enjoys spending time with his family, hiking, and practicing photography.
Speaking at
7 August, 09:20
Panel discussion: How can organisations embed a strong but flexible AI governance framework that balances risk with innovation?
Donna Forlin
AI Governance Expertnbn
Speaking at
7 August, 09:20
Panel discussion: How can organisations embed a strong but flexible AI governance framework that balances risk with innovation?
Cal Mayhook
Head of AI & Automation InnovationVocus
Cal Mayhook is the Head of AI & Automation Innovation at Vocus, a leading B2B telecommunications company. With expertise in AI, automation, product management, and strategic technology implementation, Cal leads a cross-functional team to drive business transformation through innovative AI solutions.
Speaking at
7 August, 09:20
Panel discussion: How can organisations embed a strong but flexible AI governance framework that balances risk with innovation?
Gaby Carney
Senior Fellow - Strategic AI – UTS Human Technology InstituteUniversity of Technology Sydney
Gaby Carney is a Senior Fellow at the UTS Human Technology Institute where she advises on AI governance. She has published a range of guidance on AI regulation and governance, and has advised organisations on their governance frameworks. She is currently leading HTI’s work on an Australian Government funded project to support small to medium enterprises to adopt AI safely and responsibly. Prior to HTI, Gaby was a Partner at international management consulting firm, Partners in Performance, a senior executive in the NSW Government, and a commercial lawyer.
Speaking at
7 August, 09:20
Panel discussion: How can organisations embed a strong but flexible AI governance framework that balances risk with innovation?
Lucio Ribeiro
Chief AI and Innovation OfficerTBWA\Australia
Speaking at
7 August, 10:00
Panel discussion: Brand, Bots & Backlash: AI governance at the speed of reputation
Cat McGinn
Head of ContentUnmade
As the Head of Content at Unmade, I lead the strategy and execution of curated and commercial content for a platform that empowers and informs creative professionals.
The biggest and best part of that role is bringing people together to connect, learn and become part of a community of practice, whether that’s for retail media, AI, or conversations about the big issues impacting media and marketing.
I think things through. I love finding creative, innovative and effective ways to help brands connect with people.
I have over 20 years of experience in marketing and communications, with a focus on start-ups, technology, and women's health and wellbeing.
I'm a writer, a planner, a storyteller and an idealist. Data is essential, but empathy is a superpower.
My strength as a strategist is using empathy, intuition, dreaming, creativity, and the judicious application of data to deliver results for businesses.
Curious about the world and obsessed with humans.
Speaking at
7 August, 10:00
Panel discussion: Brand, Bots & Backlash: AI governance at the speed of reputation
Kiefer Casamore
General ManagerEleven PR
With over 15 years’ experience in corporate affairs, public and government relations, Kiefer has advised organisations including the United Nations, Telstra, NAB and the Australian Defence Force. He brings a deep understanding of reputational risk and stakeholder engagement, with a particular focus on how these intersect with governance issues.
Speaking at
7 August, 10:00
Panel discussion: Brand, Bots & Backlash: AI governance at the speed of reputation
Mal Wanstall
Vice President - Data & AICochlear
Speaking at
7 August, 11:10
Meeting consumer, regulatory, and stakeholder expectations through transparency and accountability
Fernando Mourão
Head of Responsible AISeek
Fernando is a Responsible AI (RAI) Leader with over a decade of experience in Data Science, Machine Learning and Recommender Systems. As a former Computer Science professor and Data Scientist, he has made extensive contributions to both industry and academia. Passionate about the intersection of ethics, business, and innovation, Fernando is dedicated to operationalising RAI and enhancing AI governance in the industry. He focuses on bridging the gap between AI strategy, governance and execution, promoting safe, sustainable, and responsible use of technology.
Speaking at
7 August, 12:00
Identifying, assessing, and mitigating organisational threats through AI governance
Olga Lysenko
DirectorDepartment of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
Speaking at
7 August, 13:30
Panel discussion: How can organisations strengthen governance to mitigate legal and reputational risks?
Gemma Kyle
Chief Risk OfficerRest
Gemma was appointed as Chief Risk Officer in November 2018 and leads the Enterprise Risk function which includes investment risk, operational risk, business continuity, financial crime, compliance and conduct.
Gemma has over 25 years’ experience in risk management and governance across multiple industries including government, engineering and financial services. She is known for her ability to drive organisational change and achieve business objectives in complex and dynamic environments.
Prior to joining Rest, Gemma held senior positions at MLC Life Insurance, MLC Wealth, Parsons Brinkerhoff and Federal Treasury.
She is a Director on the Board of the Fund Executives Association Limited.
Gemma holds a Master of Arts from the Australian National University and a Bachelor of Economics, Social Science (First Class Honours) from the University of Sydney.
Speaking at
7 August, 13:30
Panel discussion: How can organisations strengthen governance to mitigate legal and reputational risks?
Iain Hart
Head of Risk ManagementCrown Resorts
Iain Hart has extensive work experience in various companies and roles related to risk management, compliance, cyber security, and technology operations. Iain has held leadership positions in organizations such as Crown Resorts, the Australian Institute of Company Directors, ANZ, Macquarie Group, Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Fairfax Digital, and Telstra BigPond. Throughout their career, they have been responsible for implementing technology risk management strategies, advising stakeholders on risk mitigation, and ensuring compliance with industry standards such as ISO27001.
Iain Hart completed a Bachelor of Science degree at Macquarie University from 1990 to 1992. Iain then pursued an Associate Diploma in Financial Markets at the Securities Institute of Australia from 1991 to 1994. Later, they attended the MIT Sloan School of Management from 2007 to 2009, where they earned a degree in IT Governance and Leadership, specializing in Corporate Leadership.
Speaking at
7 August, 13:30
Panel discussion: How can organisations strengthen governance to mitigate legal and reputational risks?
Aaron Alphonso
Chief Technology OfficerSydney Opera House
Aaron Alphonso is a senior technology executive with extensive experience driving digital transformation and innovation in the media, entertainment, and cultural sectors. As Chief Technology Officer at the Sydney Opera House, he leads strategic initiatives to modernise digital infrastructure, enhance audience engagement, and optimise technology operations for one of the world’s most iconic cultural institutions.
Previously, Aaron held leadership roles at SBS and Macquarie Media Limited, where he advanced broadcast technology, media operations, and cross-platform content delivery. With expertise in IT governance, emerging media technologies, and business strategy, he is passionate about leveraging technology to drive creative excellence and operational efficiency.
Speaking at
7 August, 13:30
Panel discussion: How can organisations strengthen governance to mitigate legal and reputational risks?
Eloy Gonzales
Data Science ManagerMurrumbidgee Irrigation
Seasoned IT professional with global experience across private and government sectors in three continents. Specializes in Data Science, leading projects in Predictive Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning on big data platforms. Demonstrated excellence in ICT Research/Development with a notable contribution of approximately 30 international publications and 4 patents. Proven track record as a System Engineer and Support Engineer, showcasing robust skills in software development and deployment. Recognized for strategic thinking, innovative leadership in technology, and an adept ability to mentor and coach teams towards achieving business goals.
Qualifications:
o Doctor of Engineering from Waseda University, Japan.
o Specialist in Data Science, Machine Learning, Big Data Analytics, Data Engineering.
o International consultant, advisor and implementer of AI solutions.
Speaking at
7 August, 14:30
AI incident response: preparing for AI failures, compliance breaches, and crisis management
Rasika Mohan
Working Group Member – Organisational Governance of Artificial IntelligenceIEEE
With a passion for systems-based approaches, Rasika’s areas of interest are ESG, technology, design thinking, business strategy, and organisational governance. She loves helping boards, leaders, and teams crystallise their vision for positive impact in the world, and implement tangible action to make that vision a reality.
Over the last 18 years, Rasika has worked in the automotive, banking and financial services, engineering, roads and transport, international and community development, ICT, and aged care and disability sectors. With clients and colleagues across the corporate, not-for-profit, and government (state and federal) spheres, I have developed business strategies, designed products and services, implemented governance, risk and compliance mechanisms, and led program implementations. During this time, I have been privileged to engage with stakeholders and communities across South Asia, South East Asia and the Pacific Islands.
She is am an experienced speaker and facilitator, and currently serve as an advisor and board director for organisations in arts and STEM in schools.
Speaking at
7 August, 15:00
Fireside Chat: Aligning agentic & customer-facing AI with risk-based governance frameworks
Richard Sanchez
Senior Data Governance ManagerNine
Richard Sanchez leads the group data & AI governance and privacy function as the Senior Manager Data Governance at Nine Entertainment Co. With extensive expertise in data, product management, cyber risk and privacy, he has successfully implemented robust governance, privacy, and risk frameworks across diverse industries, including higher education, retail, consumer goods, and media. His practical approach, honed in large, complex, and multi-jurisdictional organisations, provides him with a unique perspective on the challenges and pragmatism required in operationalising and embedding frameworks. He is a strong advocate for a people-centric strategy, believing that human collaboration and understanding are fundamental to achieving success.
Speaking at
7 August, 16:00
Building resilient AI data governance frameworks
Susan Gibson
Head of Data Analytics & AIUniversity of Technology Sydney
Susan is a transformational leader who has over 20 years of experience developing and executing digital, data and analytics, and AI strategies. She ensures her team continue to be at the forefront of technology whilst ensuring strategic alignment, revenue generation and operational efficiency gains. Recently she has been responsible for leading the implementation of both predictive and generative AI within the operations of the university. This involved establishing responsible AI practices, fostering AI fluency and overseeing the technological, data and organisational changes necessary to ensure successful adoption.
Speaking at
7 August, 16:30
Fireside Chat: The future of AI data governance – How can organisations move from compliance to strategic advantage?
Ash Nair
General Manager - Data Analytics, Automation and AIiCare NSW
Senior executive with experience in leading information technology, data and Artificial intelligence driven organisational transformation, achieving revenue growth, improving customer experience, and realising cost efficiencies.
Influence Boards and Executive leadership teams to build data-led organisations leveraging technology, data and Artificial Intelligence to define and execute corporate strategy.
Known as a trusted adviser, building partnerships across the delivery value chain.
Significant data and technology knowledge with commercial acumen and industry expertise.
Manage complex technology and data environments, drive technology, data and cloud transformation, building enterprise-wide data and analytical capabilities, setting up data and analytics practices, executing growth, building digital, data and AI products, and formulating go-to-market strategy.
Speaking at
7 August, 16:30
Fireside Chat: The future of AI data governance – How can organisations move from compliance to strategic advantage?
Scott Thomson
Chief Executive Officer & FounderSCRYPTID
Scott Thomson spent eight and a half years at Google, leading technical engagements and innovation in the realms of data, AI, and application modernisation. Prior to his time at Google, Scott contributed to digital strategy and digital transformation at Adobe across the APAC region. His career features significant involvement in data-driven transformation and innovation across numerous enterprises, such as British Telecom, British Energy, National Grid, Telstra, Sensis, Australia Post, Woolworths, HSBC, Deutsche Bank, DBS, and ANZ bank. Scott studied Computer Science (Hons) and a PhD (deferred) specialising in Mathematics and Artificial Intelligence.
Speaking at
6 August, 09:00
Masterclass: AI governance & risk management – A practical toolkit
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