This year’s Natural Hazards Research Australia Disaster Challenge has been won by an artificial intelligence chatbot delivering postcode-specific disaster information.

The tool was developed by postgraduate students at James Cook University.

“Harnessing technological advancements such as AI to clearly communicate personalised disaster information could provide people in harm’s way with a level of certainty during what is a highly uncertain time, building trust and enhancing resilience,” Natural Hazards Research Australia CEO Andrew Gissing said.

Alison Sheaves, from the winning team, says resources in Queensland, including local councils’ disaster dashboards, are not “particularly personally relevant”.

“An AI chatbot providing tailored, relevant messaging around a disaster would fill this gap, covering preparing for the disaster, up-to-date information, your risk and how to mitigate it,” she said.

Other finalists included Project OutHeat, focusing on community-led engagement and mobile relief during heatwaves, and Home Insurance Risk Reduction Options, which pitched insurance incentives to encourage practical home improvements.

See all the pitches here.