Plenary Session 4 - From Data to Decisions: AI, the Digital Landscape, and the Future of Alcohol and Other Drug Prevention
| Wednesday, September 16, 2026 |
| 3:30 PM - 4:20 PM |
| Wala Mirr Theatre (Plenary room) |
Overview
Speakers: Dr. Roisin McNaney | Assoc. Prof. Amy Peacock
Details
Session co-chairs: Ms Shayal Prasad & Dr. Jessica Watterson (stepping in for Dr. M Tasdik Hasan)
Emerging technologies and data-driven approaches are transforming how we understand, prevent, and respond to alcohol and other drug (AOD) harms. This session brings together two leading global researchers to explore the challenges and opportunities that artificial intelligence and digital innovation present for AOD surveillance, policy, prevention and service delivery. The presentations will showcase the use of AI in AOD and social services, alongside cutting-edge research on monitoring emerging drug trends and translating data into timely public health action. Together, the speakers will demonstrate how innovation can support safer, more responsive, and equitable health systems.
Speaker
Dr Roisin McNaney
Associate Professor of Digital Health
University of Melbourne
S4 K1 - Extending the Reach of Care Alcohol and Other Drugs Service Provision: Human-led, AI-enabled
Abstract
AI is already in the room. The question is no longer if we use it but how. In this talk, A/Professor Róisín McNaney (University of Melbourne) explores what AI can genuinely do for a sector under strain, where more than half the AoD workforce reports overtime and burnout. She explores practical opportunities alongside the risks clinicians need to be alert to right now.
Associate Professor Amy Peacock
Associate Professor and Deputy Director
National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW
S4 K2 - The Digital Landscape and Emerging Drug Trends: Challenges and Opportunities for Better Identification and Response
Abstract
Artificial intelligence and the digital landscape are reshaping substance use, markets and related harms, presenting both new challenges and new opportunities for public health. This presentation will examine the implications of these changes and explore how AI and emerging digital data sources can strengthen how we identify, understand and respond to emerging issues.
