Ballina Council’s new economic development team made its public debut at an AI business forum where operators were warned to protect data, privacy and intellectual property.
A show of hands at a recent Ballina business forum suggested as many as nine in ten local businesses are now using artificial intelligence to improve productivity — but experts are warning operators to be aware of serious risks.
The event, held in partnership with the Ballina Chamber of Commerce, was the first major public forum involving Ballina Shire Council’s newly appointed Coordinator Destination and Economy, Allanah Ward.
The position was created after lengthy debate among councillors and was strongly supported by Mayor Sharon Cadwallader and Cr Michelle Bailey, who also leads the Lennox Head Chamber of Commerce.
The first business forum, organised by council’s new beefed-up ‘Economic and Visitor Development’ team, focused on the growing use of AI in business, exploring both opportunities and potential dangers.
‘It’s not your friend — it’s a tool’
Guest speaker Candice DeVille, CEO of AI CoPilot, told the audience that while AI has powerful benefits, business owners should avoid treating it like a trusted partner.
“Number one is always privacy and safety,” Ms DeVille said.
“It can feel like your friend, but it’s not really your friend — it’s a tool.”
She urged users to avoid entering financial or personally identifiable information into AI platforms, recommended businesses choose paid versions for improved security, and advised users to review data and privacy settings carefully.
Ms DeVille also encouraged businesses to use AI to review complex terms and conditions from platforms like Facebook and Instagram, saying many people give away rights to data without realising it.
Council: New role will open doors for business
Mayor Sharon Cadwallader said the new economic development role is intended to support businesses at every stage of investment and innovation.
“I’m excited that we now have somebody dedicated to facilitating inquiries, whether it’s a new business or expanding a business,” Cr Cadwallader said.
“Things won’t be missed. We need to be opening doors and rolling out the red carpet for potential businesses.”
The Mayor praised Ms Ward’s performance in her previous tourism role with the council, describing her as a “proven performer”.
The forum drew strong interest, with business owners particularly engaged on the issue of protecting commercial data and intellectual property developed through AI platforms.
The Mayor said the discussion was well timed given recent concerns about data breaches and the rapid adoption of AI across many industries.
Main Photo, L to R: Laura Woolcott and Alannah Ward from council’s newly formed Destination and Economy team, Mayor Cadwallader, CEO of AI CoPilot –Candice DeVille, and Imbi Davidson from the Northern Rivers Community Gallery, which hosted the event.