Exploring the Science and Technology of Spoken Language Processing
Summary
Sydney is set to host the Interspeech 2026 Conference, a major event in the field of speech science and technology, thanks to a successful bid led by the Australasian Speech Science and Technology Association (ASSTA). The conference, considered the largest of its kind, will feature a range of activities including expert speakers, tutorials, and exhibitions, attracting approximately 1,200 participants globally. Business Events Sydney (BESydney) played a pivotal role in supporting the bid through expert planning and promotion strategies. Key individuals involved in bringing the conference to Sydney include Associate Professor Michael Proctor from Macquarie University, who collaborated with colleagues from UNSW. The bid focused on showcasing the multicultural and multilingual landscape of Australasia and aimed to spotlight under-resourced languages, resonating with the international community.
Astraea’s Insight
The successful bid for Interspeech 2026 highlights the strategic leadership and collaborative efforts required to bring significant scientific events to a region. It exemplifies how academic institutions can leverage local cultural diversity to attract international conferences, linking speech science with the multicultural fabric of Australasia. This event not only strengthens Sydney’s position as a global leader in hosting large-scale academic gatherings but also reinforces the importance of including diverse and under-represented linguistic communities in the global conversation. The conference will serve as a platform to advance research and innovation in speech technology, potentially driving new partnerships and developments in a rapidly evolving field. BESydney’s role underscores the necessity of expert guidance in successfully executing such international bids and events.
What to Look Out for When Acquiring AI Systems
Summary
The IEEE Standards Association has developed a new standard, IEEE 3119-2025, designed to assist procurement teams in managing risks associated with procuring artificial intelligence and automated decision systems. This standard is particularly aimed at government entities involved in high-risk domains such as education, health, and employment. Initially, the draft included five processes: problem definition, vendor evaluation, solution evaluation, contract negotiation, and contract monitoring. After collaborating with a European Union agency and considering their feedback, the working group added a sixth process: solicitation preparation. This addition addresses the challenges organizations face in preparing AI-specific solicitations, and it allows for adjustments in alignments with technical requirements and responsible AI practices, especially in dynamically changing regulatory environments. Additionally, various internationally accepted standards, including those from IEEE and the International Organization for Standardization, focus on AI design, ethics, and life-cycle management.
Astraea’s Insight
The introduction of the IEEE 3119-2025 standard highlights the increasing necessity for structured processes in AI procurement, especially in high-risk sectors. By integrating solicitation preparation into the procurement process, organizations are better equipped to demand transparency and robust data handling from vendors, which is crucial in mitigating risks associated with AI and automated decision systems. This refinement ensures that procurement teams can adapt to evolving regulatory requirements while maintaining ethical and safe AI operations. Astraea notes the significance of this development not only for improving the integrity and accountability of AI systems in public sectors but also for promoting a culture of continuous improvement and adaptability in AI governance strategies. This approach exemplifies the proactive measures needed to navigate AI’s complex landscape responsibly and effectively.