Harmers Workplace Lawyers and the Australian Institute of Employment Rights (“AIER”) recently hosted the Halloween-themed 2024 AIER Ron McCallum Debate entitled: “A.I. – Trick or Treat?”, chaired by President Hatcher of the Fair Work Commission. The debate explored the “ghost in the machine” – the immense promise and dire, even existential, consequences of artificial intelligence in the world of work. What’s in store for work and industrial relations in the age of artificial intelligence?

The annual AIER Ron McCallum Debate is the pre-eminent public industrial relations debate in Australia. Every year it brings the leaders of unions, industry, government and independents together to debate the pressing issues facing the nation.

This year’s keynote speakers and panellists included:

Keynote speakers:

• Senator the Hon Murray Watt MP, Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations
• Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash, Shadow Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations
• John Ritchotte, International Labour Organization
• Emeritus Professor Ron McCallum AO

Panellists:

• Associate Professor Anna Boucher, Sydney University
• David Marr, Journalist, Commentator, Author
• Liam O’Brien, Assistant Secretary, Australian Council of Trade Unions
• Helen Cooney, National Assistant Secretary, SDA
• Bill Simpson-Young, Chief Executive, Gradient Institute
• Michael Harmer, Chairperson, Harmers Workplace Lawyers LP & AIER President

RECORDING:

If you need additional information, please contact Jane Kewin, Client Service Director via email: jane.kewin@harmers.com.au or call on +61407101299.