Official launch of the Security and Resilience Hub
Distinguished Professor Sujeeva Setunge, Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor STEM College, Research and Innovation
Keynote speakers
Dheeren Vélu, Head of Innovation AU/NZ, Capgemini
AI's Next Frontier: Agents and the Architecture of a Secure Nation
Abstract: The internet is about to get five billion new users. They have no names, no email addresses, and no passports - and the infrastructure to support them is being built right now.
In this keynote, Dheeren Vélu maps the AI frontier that matters most for security, resilience, and national capability: the rapid rise of autonomous AI agents, what it means to design systems that can perceive, decide, and act without human involvement at every step, and why the architecture of a secure nation is no longer just physical - it is cognitive, agentic, and being defined today.
Drawing on the latest developments in agent economics, autonomous decision systems, and AI's emerging ability to model human cognition itself, this session will challenge, provoke, and ultimately energise - making the case that the researchers, institutions, and government partners in this room are exactly who needs to be shaping what comes next.
Dr. Anthony Chesman, Research Director of the Devices and Engineered Systems Program, CSIRO
Flexible solar cells: Emerging applications for a resilient nation and prospects for domestic production.
Abstract: Conventional Si solar cells are central to the global transition to renewable energy, but their relative weight and rigidness limit their application. Flexible classes of solar cells based on emerging photoabsorber materials offer high power-to-weight ratios and increased portability, allowing for their deployment in emergency situations and on light-weight structures. This presentation will examine the structure and fabrication of these solar cells, opportunities for their rapid deployment, and efforts to create a sovereign capability in their production.
Panel discussion
From Problem to Partnership: How Industry and Government Work with Research to Drive Real-World Impact
The Security and Resilience Hub brings together industry leaders, government decision makers, and researchers to tackle the challenges that matter most. The panel will explore how to build effective partnerships that turn complex problems into practical solutions.
Moderated by Professor Xavier Mulet, with Dheeren Vélu, Dr. Kathie McGregor, Clare Russell and Dr. John Stehle
Security and Resilience Hub capability showcase and networking
An opportunity for guests to experience some of the innovations and network with RMIT researchers and industry collaborators over drinks and nibbles.
Event sponsored by RMIT STEM College and SMEC AI
