The role and impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and ‘deepfake’ news for Western Sydney audiences was a key focus at this year’s annual Greater Western Sydney (GWS) Media Forum.
Hosted by the Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue (WSLD), the forum delved into how local media outlets are harnessing AI to promote truth, protect local audiences and build trust.
Media and communications representatives from the Diocese of Parramatta and Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) attended the 2024 GWS Media Forum at the William Inglis in Warwick Farm to engage with local media representatives and gain valuable insights about current issues in today’s media landscape.
WSLD Director of Communications Belinda Wallis introduced the forum by discussing the presence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in today’s media.
Ms Wallis highlighted the proliferation of ‘deepfake’ news – that is, the use of digitally altered images, voice and video to spread misinformation, particularly on social media.
The question before the forum was how will Greater Western Sydney fare in an AI world?
ABC News Standards Editor and former Middle East Correspondent Matt Brown joined Daily Telegraph and Sky News Commentator and Journalist Joe Hildebrand to share insights on how newsrooms are harnessing modern AI systems and processes while embedding governance processes and policies to protect against the spread of misinformation and deliver trusted, authentic and human-generated yarns.
There was also a panel discussion on the importance of reputation in today’s media world, including the importance of building authentic relationships and establishing public trust through delivering relevant and ethical news.
The forum included a ‘fireside chat’ with ABC 7pm Lead News Anchor Jeremy Fernandez, as well as WSLD Chairman, Christopher Brown AM about the what the relocation of ABC News to Parramatta means for Western Sydney audiences.
Head of Communications and Engagement Anita Sulentic said the 2024 GWS Media Forum also provided an opportunity for the Diocese of Parramatta and CSPD to engage with local media and build positive relationships.
“The event also provided a fantastic opportunity to listen to and chat with local journalists across Western Sydney, with representatives from ABC News, Seven News, SBS, Sydney Morning Herald and the Sunday Telegraph,” she said.
“We are keen to continue to share the wonderful work being delivered each day within our parishes, schools, agencies and ministries,” she said.
Communications Director Elizabeth Scully said the forum provided an opportunity to collaborate with local media on various initiatives taking place within Catholic Schools.
“With ABC News’ office in Parramatta, we have an ideal opportunity to share more exciting stories from schools in the Diocese.
“Special thanks to Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue for hosting the event and all the organisers.”
Diocese of Parramatta and Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese are members of the WSLD, a think-tank established in 2015 to shine a light on the key issues in the region, to spark and nurture a national conversation about the West and to help ensure it is better equipped to shape its future.
View the gallery of images or find out more on the WSLD website.
