Australia’s leading futurist, author, and technologist Steve Sammartino headlined a dynamic business breakfast at the Cardinia Shire Cultural Centre on May 14.
Steve shared real-world examples and offered practical insights into how AI can benefit local businesses and help them adapt in a fast-changing digital world.
Attendees discovered how to take small, confident steps in adopting technologies that enhance their existing operations. Steve’s engaging talk inspired business owners to think differently and embrace innovation. During the session, local teachers, including representatives from Pakenham Living & Learning Centre—sought practical advice on how to enhance their services and integrate AI into areas such as education
From streamlining processes to improving customer engagement, the session showcased how AI can support growth and efficiency across various industries.
The morning sparked meaningful discussions and highlighted the exciting possibilities for the future of business in Cardinia Shire.
Steve highlighted that there is much more we can do with the innovations and opportunities AI offers, and the positive impact it can have on both our businesses and our lives.
“The key message for me is helping people understand that they don’t need to learn anything new to participate in this revolution. If you can talk or type, you can use it—that’s what I want them to walk away with mentally,” he said.
“But more importantly, I hope they go back to their desks and actually try something new today—do something they haven’t done before. I want them to realise that the internet is no longer just a giant filing cabinet; it’s a brain.
“That means you can put something in and get something out that’s completely unique to you. The data you input—your business problem or specific context—can generate entirely new outcomes.”
He wants people to have that moment of, “Oh wow, I didn’t think it would be that easy”.
However, his biggest concern is the lack of thoughtful regulation. While it’s not impossible, he believes governments around the world don’t yet understand the technology well enough to set appropriate boundaries.
Steve used the example of cars, pointing out that it took years before speed limits or drink-driving laws were introduced, and that early factories operated without workplace safety rules—leading to regular injuries
“All technologies need boundaries too. I fear they’re not taking it seriously enough and are simply letting developers do whatever they want,” he said.
“The real question is: What boundaries do we set around AI to ensure no one gets hurt using the technology? That’s what we need. To achieve that, we need a government that is well-versed in the topic.”
Mayor Jack Kowarzik welcomed the strong turnout at Cardinia’s networking breakfast, where local businesses and residents explored the power of AI to shape the future.
“Of course here at Cardinia Shire Council, we are committed to supporting our businesses to advance and develop through workshops, business coaching and networking events just like this networking breakfast,” he said.
“We hope that today’s event provides you with a platform to connect with your other business owners, you may not have done so in the past.
“We encourage you to get to know your fellow local business community, start some conversations about the things you’re seeing locally, industry, things that are working well for your business and also some of the challenges you might be facing out there.
“Because it’s these sorts of connections and conversations that can lead to something really exciting for the future.”
The networking breakfast also gave businesses a chance to engage directly with Steve through a Q&A session. Star News Group owner Paul Thomas raised a thought-provoking question about the future of original content and the implications for AI, while Cr Liz Roberts echoed similar concerns around copyright. Their contributions sparked one of the most insightful discussions of the morning, highlighting the depth of curiosity and critical thinking within Cardinia’s business community.
