Hear from experts in stakeholder engagement, brand management, government communication, and AI. Learn how to navigate AI-driven change while managing reputation.

Date: Monday 9 March 2026

Time: 5..45pm – 7.45pm

Location: The Precinct, 315 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley

AI is here to stay, and it’s quickly transforming our work as communication professionals.

But rapid change brings additional risks. If we use AI to speed up processes without proper oversight, we could harm our organisation’s reputation and lose trust from customers and community. 

When AI gets it wrong, the fallout is swift and puts operational staff in the firing line.

How do we mitigate these risks and use AI responsibly in a way that maintains trust, understands context, and allows us to make strategic decisions?

In IABC Queensland’s next panel event, we bring together experts from stakeholder engagement, brand and reputation management, government, and AI, to tackle these questions and more.

We’ll discuss hypothetical case studies to understand:

• how AI tools can be used for community engagement, government communication, and real-time service updates

• what can go wrong in the process

• the human skills we need to apply to ensure AI-driven communication is responsible, empathetic, and accurate.

You’ll leave with a practical understanding of AI risks and opportunities, and insights into how best to manage them.

Speakers

Kirsten MacGregor has been a trusted advisor and executive for some of Australia’s most recognisable leaders and organisations. She is the new Executive Director of Strategic Communication and Events at the Department of Education.

Dan Shaw works at the intersection of brand, governance and digital transformation, with a special emphasis on AI. As co-founder of BrandHalo, he is focused on helping marketing and digital leaders regain control of brand and reputation in an AI-driven environment.

Amanda Newbery, Managing Director of Articulous, is one of Australia’s most respected engagement and communication leaders, renowned for guiding major corporations and government agencies through high-stakes, complex challenges.

Emma Hall is a leadership coach, culture strategist and founder of Emjoy, dedicated to shaping purpose-led organisations where people genuinely want to work.