13June2026

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Michael Walls
michael@accessnews.com.au
0407 783 413

Saturday, 06 June 2026 12:06

AI CHATBOT THAT REDUCES STIGMA

THE Alcohol and Drug Foundation is celebrating the success of its AI-powered chatbot, dib, which has been shortlisted in the Community Impact category of the Australian Financial Review AI Awards. Since launching a year ago, dib has conducted around 45,000 anonymous conversations, providing evidence-based information on alcohol and other drugs. Most users are aged 18–24, with alcohol the most common topic. Designed to reduce stigma and improve access to reliable support, dib uses trusted ADF content and safety safeguards. Winners of the awards will be announced in June.” Powered by AI, dib is a technological first in the Australian public health sector. Using dib is an anonymous, non-stigmatising way to find alcohol and other drug information in a familiar, chat-based format,” said the Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s CEO, Dr Erin Lalor AM. 
Saturday, 06 June 2026 11:54

SUPPORTING OUR LOCAL SMALL BUSINESSES

Awards an opportunity to celebrate success
MICHELLE ROWLAND
SMALL businesses are the backbone of our community. 
Saturday, 06 June 2026 11:44

ASHTON KNOCKS IT OUT OF THE PARK

Pittsburgh Pirates come calling
TONY BOSWORTH
A CHILDHOOD dream has become reality for Blacktown baseball star Ashton Kennedy, who has officially signed with Major League Baseball franchise the Pittsburgh Pirates. 
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