Good Things Australia, in collaboration with Microsoft and Telstra, is launching the ‘Digital Sisters: AI for Good’ project. The initiative aims to support refugee and migrant women in building their understanding and use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The project will launch exclusive learning materials through 20 national partners and train 40 Digital Mentors to reach 600 women, with 3,500 community organisations to also gain access to program resources via Good Things’ networked model.

“We’re thrilled to be launching this work that will support women in building the skills and confidence to engage with AI and other emerging technologies so they don’t get left behind,” said CEO of Good Things, Jess Wilson. “We are grateful for our partnership with Telstra and Microsoft on this groundbreaking initiative.”

As part of the project, Good Things Australia conducted extensive research into the intersection between AI literacy and digital inclusion. Key findings from the report include barriers to AI engagement, the definition of AI Literacy, ethical concerns around AI development, a general lack of awareness about AI among migrant and refugee women, and the necessity of basic digital and literacy skills to use AI-powered tools and devices.

“It’s not just about how to use AI, supporting people to build their AI literacy means being able to critically analyse information that is created by AI,” Wilson said.

Group Executive, Sustainability, External Affairs, and Legal at Telstra, Lyndall Stoyles, said: “This project is about more than just teaching AI skills – it’s about opening doors for women who are often left out of the digital conversation. By focusing on AI literacy, we’re helping support a future where more women can take control of their digital lives and fully participate in the opportunities of a tech-driven society.”

General Manager, Enterprise Commercial at Microsoft, Jo Dooley, said: “At Microsoft, we believe that economic growth and opportunity should be accessible to everyone, and this begins with equipping all individuals with the skills needed to thrive in a digital, AI-driven economy, while also addressing the unique challenges women face in our digital world. We’re thrilled to collaborate with Good Things Australia and Telstra to empower more women through the Digital Sisters AI for Good program.”

The project continues Good Things Australia’s commitment to digital inclusion, aiming to empower women with the skills to navigate and leverage AI technologies safely. “Educational materials on AI technologies should prioritise practical, relatable, and culturally appropriate approaches. We look forward to working with 20 of our community partners across the country to develop and test approaches to learning about AI and watching as refugee and migrant women use these tools to improve their lives,” said Wilson.