GeelongPort has been named a finalist in the Industrial Sector category of the 2026 Australian AI Awards for an artificial intelligence solution that is helping optimise vessel and berth planning across the port.
The Australian AI Awards recognise excellence in the development and application of artificial intelligence across Australian industry, highlighting organisations that are delivering practical outcomes through innovation.
Developed in partnership with Hypergen using Microsoft’s AI platform, the solution analyses vessel notifications and operational data to recommend optimal berth, resource and equipment allocations. A human-in-the-loop approval process ensures experienced operators remain in control of final planning decisions.
The project progressed from concept to production deployment in just six weeks and is already helping improve planning efficiency across GeelongPort’s operations.
GeelongPort CEO Brett Winter said the recognition reflected the organisation’s commitment to innovation and operational excellence.
“The ports that will lead in the decades ahead will be those that combine deep operational expertise with the intelligent use of technology,” he said.
“In six weeks, our team turned a complex operational challenge into a practical solution that is already improving the way we plan and make decisions across the port. This project demonstrates how artificial intelligence can strengthen decision-making, lift efficiency and help build more resilient supply chains, while keeping experienced people firmly in control.”
The award nomination recognises GeelongPort’s successful application of emerging technology to support safer, smarter and more efficient trade operations.
