← Back to AISUM25

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about the AI Safety Unconference

What is an unconference?

An unconference is much like a normal conference, but the agenda isn't set in advance. Attendees pitch sessions they want to run or want to have someone run, everyone votes on what they'd like to go to, and then someone (in this case us, the organisers) does some constrained optimisation to build a program.

What this means for you: start thinking about what you might like to run, what you'd like to see others run, and start preparing!

Who should attend AISUM25?

Like we say on the landing page, we're aiming for this to be an opportunity to get into the technical weeds on relevant topics (though those might span deep learning, alignment, philosophy, ethics, law, and more). We expect that there'll be little '101' content - it'll be all 201+.

If you'd like to get started in AI safety, we would suggest some of the following resources - and we'd be excited to see you at future events!

Check out:

How do I apply?

The process works like this:

  1. You fill out a short application form
  2. We review applications and send out acceptances on a rolling basis
  3. If accepted, you'll receive an email with a link to complete your registration (via Humanitix)

We know this might feel unusual if you're more familiar with open-registration conferences! With space for only ~50 people and significant interest, we unfortunately can't accommodate everyone we'd like. Rather than making it first-come-first-served, we're using applications to thoughtfully curate the conversations. This helps us:

  • Create better outcomes for each attendee individually and as a whole
  • Get the right mix of perspectives and backgrounds
  • Make the day count

We recognise this means some or even many people in our community won't be able to attend, which is genuinely difficult. We don't think this should be interpreted as a comment on any individual! We hope to see and provide more opportunities for more people.

Is there a cost to attend?

There will be a ticket cost, which is only to partly recoup venue and catering costs - the organisers are doing this totally pro bono.

Prices are yet to be finalised, as they'll depend on sponsorship and donations, but we expect the standard ticket price to be around $50 AUD, with options to pay less for those who need the support, and to pay more, for those who want to contribute.

Where exactly will the event be held?

Melbourne Connect Co-working, Level 2 700 Swanston St, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia