In this episode of Beyond Education, presented by Enquiry Tracker, we delve into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on education. Co-hosted by Ahron Young and Enquiry Tracker CEO Antony Campitelli, the discussion features insights from Professor Robert Tai of the Australian Catholic University.

AI is increasingly recognised as both a revolutionary force and a practical tool in learning. Professor Tai highlights that, when applied thoughtfully, AI can enhance educational experiences and accelerate student progress. At Inquiry Tracker, AI is utilised for research and as coding agents, helping to improve efficiency and streamline tasks.

Historical fears

Despite these benefits, educators have expressed concerns about students over-relying on AI tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini for tasks like writing papers, potentially limiting authentic learning. Professor Tai points out that such anxieties echo historical fears surrounding the introduction of new technologies. He notes that AI can, in fact, foster critical thinking, as users must craft precise prompts to achieve desired results. For example, one student required 26 iterations to complete a paper using AI.

However, AI has its limitations. It primarily remixes existing information and cannot generate entirely novel concepts. The rapid advancements in AI since late 2022 have prompted educators to rethink their teaching strategies. Integrating AI for tasks such as summarising allows students to engage more deeply with material while freeing up time for critical analysis and creative thinking.

Adrian Pozzo, the long-serving leader of Cbus Property, is stepping down after nearly two decades, leaving behind one of Australia’s most significant property growth stories. Under his leadership, the organisation’s portfolio grew from $500 million to $7 billion, cementing its status as a major player in the sector.

In this episode of The Connector, host Belinda Coates sits down with Pozzo to reflect on his career and the future of Cbus Property.

Pozzo attributes this success to close alignment with the Cbus industry super fund and a focus on strong member returns, achieving an average of nearly 13 per cent over 20 years, even through challenging periods like the Global Financial Crisis.

Innovation and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles have been central to his strategy. Cbus Property’s first development, 8 Exhibition Street, achieved a 4.5 NABERS rating, with newer projects now reaching six stars.

As hybrid work reshapes office demand, Cbus Property is rethinking workplaces. Developments such as 435 Burke Street emphasise high-quality amenities, while 205 North Quay in Brisbane incorporates wellness features, including a pool, to enhance tenant experience.

Chris Kufus will succeed Pozzo as CEO, marking a seamless transition after a two-decade collaboration. On sectors like build-to-rent, Pozzo remains cautious, citing risk and return profiles less compelling than office or build-to-sell projects.

Looking ahead, Cbus Property continues to balance commercial performance with social outcomes. The group incorporates affordable housing within premium developments while prioritising member returns. Pozzo has championed diversity, supporting women, Indigenous Australians, and apprenticeships in construction. International investment remains outside the company’s mandate, with a focus firmly on domestic opportunities.

Melbourne recorded its hottest day in six years at 42.7 degrees Celsius, prompting urgent action from the city.

In this episode of The Connector with Belinda Coates, Tiffany Crawford, Melbourne’s Chief Heat Officer, discusses strategies to protect residents from extreme heat and highlights its role as a “silent killer” in Australia.

The extreme temperatures pose serious health risks, including heart attacks, strokes, and mental health challenges worsened by dehydration. The urban heat island effect makes afternoons and evenings especially oppressive, emphasising the need for proactive city planning.

To combat heat, Melbourne is expanding its urban forest, creating “cool places” such as libraries, and introducing water-sensitive urban design. Collaborations with private property owners and global exchanges with other Chief Heat Officers are crucial in tackling this growing climate challenge.