Smart skills for a digital future: Free AI workshops

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s part of everyday life, from voice assistants and smart devices to online search recommendations and automated services. But for many, AI still feels intimidating, mysterious, or even threatening. That’s why education is key.

As AI becomes commonplace, digital inclusion now means having the confidence and skills to use it effectively. Without sufficient support, some Australians risk being left behind as AI becomes a normal part of life, work, and connection.

State Library of Queensland’s Digital and You program is delivering free AI workshops to demystify AI, build confidence, and equip regional and remote communities with the skills to use AI tools responsibly and creatively. Whether you're curious about how AI works, concerned about its impact, or eager to explore its creative and practical potential, these sessions offer a supportive and engaging space to learn.

Practical and ethical

Importantly, the workshops don’t just focus on what AI can do—they also explore what it should do. These sessions offer a practical and thoughtful introduction that builds skills and unpacks essential topics like ethical AI use, how to identify and avoid misinformation, and the risks of over-reliance on technology. Participants learn how to use AI tools responsibly, with a strong emphasis on transparency, consent, and critical thinking, while also addressing common fears and misconceptions with clear, fact-based guidance.

Regional Digital Development Officer (RDDO) Ricky Clark has already delivered a number of AI for Beginners workshops across regional Far North Queensland, with fantastic feedback from participants of all ages. The sessions are praised for being engaging and easy to follow—so much so that communities have requested repeat visits.

‘AI isn’t just for tech experts—it’s for everyone,’ Ricky said.

‘One of the most rewarding parts of these workshops is seeing people go from hesitant to excited.

‘Once they realise how simple and useful AI tools can be, it opens up a whole new world.

‘We’re helping people understand AI, question it, and use it responsibly. That’s what digital literacy is all about—giving people the tools and knowledge to feel in control of technology, not overwhelmed by it.’

In Central West Queensland, RDDO Louise Gronold recently delivered a workshop for Barcaldine 60 & Better program participants, focusing on online scams and fraud awareness as well as an introduction to ChatGPT. The session sparked lively discussion about its potential.

‘They’re so engaged and curious,” Louise said.

‘I think everyone went away feeling confident and willing to explore more at home. We’ll definitely cover AI more in future workshops.’

Louise is currently running a series of online digital workshops where she’s noticed strong interest in the AI tools contained within platforms like Canva. Participants are eager to understand how to gain the maximum benefit and impact in creative projects, marketing, and productivity—especially in small business and community settings.

Digital inclusion and AI: Who’s being left behind?

According to the 2025 Australian Digital Inclusion Index, nearly half of Australians (45.6%) have recently used generative AI. But this uptake is far from equal.

Who’s using AI—and who isn’t—is shaped by age, education, language, location, and occupation. Younger people, students, professionals, and those with a higher level of education are leading the way, while older Australians, people with lower levels of education, and those in manual or regional occupations are far less likely to be engaging with these tools. Language also plays a role, with higher usage among people who speak a language other than English at home.

These disparities highlight the growing importance of ‘Digital Ability’ in digital inclusion. Initiatives like State Library’s Digital and You program are essential to ensuring no one is left behind, by building digital skills and making AI accessible and relevant to everyone.

What you’ll learn in Digital and You AI workshops

Each workshop is tailored to the audience, whether that’s individuals, small businesses, or older Australians. No previous AI experience or tech knowledge is required.

General AI skills:

• What is AI? A clear introduction to how it works
• Everyday AI: How it appears in apps, websites, and services
• Direct demos: Hands-on activities with writing, image creation, and productivity tools
• Ethical AI use: Understanding fairness, privacy, and transparency
• AI and creativity: Exploring storytelling, design, and innovation.

Business-focused skills:

• AI for small businesses: Using AI tools and digital marketing tools and strategies to grow businesses
• Digital optimisation using SEO and Google Business Profile
• Saving time and increasing productivity with practical, easy-to-apply tips.

Upcoming events

Free in-person and online workshops are scheduled across Queensland. Here’s what’s coming up:

AI for beginners (in-person):

• Friday 21 November – Malanda
• Friday 21 November – Ravenshoe
• Tuesday 25 November – St George
• Friday 27 March 2026 – Innisfail

ChatGPT for seniors (in-person):

• Tuesday 2 December 2025 – Quilpie

   

Digital Smarts: AI, ChatGPT & marketing made simple (2-hour online workshops):

• Tuesday 2 December
• Wednesday 3 December
• Thursday 4 December
• Monday 8 December
• Tuesday 9 December
• Wednesday 10 December
• Thursday 11 December
• Monday 15 December
• Tuesday 16 December

Check times and make a booking.

Bookings

Spaces are limited—book now through the Digital and You app or using the links above.

Looking for other digital workshops in your local area or self-paced modules to complete at home? Download the app to receive info on the latest workshops, make bookings, and keep a handy record of your achievements.

State Library’s Regional Digital Development project is supported by the Department of Customer Service, Open Data and Small and Family Business.