GovHack 2024

Acknowledgement of Country

In 2024, GovHack's dedicated staff, volunteers, and community members continued their work in various locations across the lands now known as Australia and New Zealand. We deeply value this opportunity to acknowledge the rich tapestry of Indigenous cultures that have flourished on these lands for millennia.

Our work in 2024 has taken place on the lands of:

• Australian Capital Territory
  • Canberra — Acknowledging the Ngunnawal peoples as the Traditional Custodians of this land.
• New South Wales
  • Sydney — Acknowledging the Gadigal of the Eora nation as the Traditional Custodians of this land.
  • Liverpool — Acknowledging the Cabrogal Clan of the Darug Nation as the Traditional Custodians of this land.
• Northern Territory
  • Darwin — Acknowledging the Larrakia peoples as the Traditional Custodians of this land.
• Queensland
  • Brisbane — Acknowledging the Jagera peoples and Turrbal peoples as the Traditional Custodians of this land.
  • Moreton Bay — Acknowledging the Kabi Kabi peoples, Jinibara peoples and Turrbal peoples as the Traditional Custodians of this land.
  • Sunshine Coast — Acknowledging the Kabi Kabi peoples and Jinibara peoples as the Traditional Custodians of this land.
• South Australia
  • Adelaide — Acknowledging the Kaurna peoples as the Traditional Custodians of this land.
• Tasmania
  • Hobart — Acknowledging the muwinina and palawa peoples as the Traditional Custodians of this land.
• Victoria
  • Melbourne — Acknowledging the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong Boon Wurrung peoples of the Eastern Kulin Nation as the Traditional Custodians of this land.
  • Burwood — Acknowledging the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung peoples of the Eastern Kulin Nation as the Traditional Custodians of this land.
• Western Australia
  • Perth — Acknowledging the Whadjuk Nyoongar peoples as the Traditional Custodians of this land.
  • Albany — Acknowledging the Menang Noongar peoples as the Traditional Custodians of this land.
• Aotearoa New Zealand
  • Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, Whanganui, Whangarei — Acknowledging ngā iwi Māori as the Tangata Whenua of Aotearoa.

As we reflect on the accomplishments and collaborations of GovHack 2024 across these diverse locations, we acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded, and we pay our respects to the elders past and present throughout Australia and New Zealand. We are committed to deepening our understanding of Indigenous cultures, histories, and issues and working towards reconciliation and unity.

GovHack respects ngā iwi Māori as the Tangata Whenua of Aotearoa and their rich contributions to society.

Section 1

What is GovHack?

GovHack empowers communities all over Australia and New Zealand to experiment and tackle today's big policy and service delivery challenges with data.

We exist to:

• connect community, government and industry to work together to grow data skills and build a digitally capable and inclusive society;
• showcase data as the tool to identify and address today's most pressing social, economic and environmental challenges;
• impress upon government the economic and social value of quality machine-readable, standardised open data;
• highlight how open government is strengthening our democracy by promoting transparency and trust.

We value:

• Inclusion — We're here for everyone! We believe that everyone deserves to participate in our digital future which is why GovHack is age-less, diverse, accessible, safe and secure.
• Free — All our events, everywhere, for everyone.
• Hackers-first — Our community is our priority. We work to elevate the needs of our community and members.
• Regional — Opportunities shouldn't be limited to where you live. We work to drive GovHack to regional and rural regions.
• Volunteer-driven — Passionate volunteers are the change makers and life blood that makes GovHack come alive.
• Transparency — We believe in being accountable and open in all that we do.
• Open Access — We advocate for FAIR (findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable) data to be used in open ways, shared and adaptable for everyone.

GovHack is an annual 46 hour hackathon, a Festival of Ideas, using open government data to make our communities better places.

We do this by providing access to data and a space to connect with Government and organisations so you can workshop ideas around community challenges and imagine and develop concepts to drive meaningful change.

Across one weekend, thousands come together across Australia and New Zealand to form teams, agree to projects, and participate in what has become one of the world's premier open data competitions.

During the competition, teams create a proof of concept and a video that tells the story of how data can be reused, looking for new ways to solve challenges facing government.

Established in 2009 as a small Canberra-based event to showcase the opportunities of open government data, GovHack has grown into the largest open data hackathon in the Southern Hemisphere.

Section 2

A few words from our Operations Team

As we reflect on GovHack 2024, we are deeply inspired by the extraordinary journey we have shared together. This year, GovHack once again proved to be a powerful catalyst for creativity, collaboration, and innovation — a testament to the remarkable talent and unwavering dedication of our community.

At the very heart of GovHack are the projects — and this year, we soared to new heights. By the close of the competition on Sunday, September 8, an unprecedented 187 projects had been submitted, each one a beacon of ingenuity and passion. With 2,805 registrations for the 2024 events, the enthusiasm and commitment of our participants shone through, reminding us why GovHack remains the largest open data hackathon in the Southern Hemisphere.

Staying true to our mission of addressing the challenges that matter most, GovHack 2024 proudly championed projects aligned with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) themes. The breadth and quality of entries were nothing short of extraordinary — from pioneering approaches to electric vehicle adoption and climate change mitigation, to innovative generative AI solutions and heritage preservation.

This year’s entries also highlighted urgent real-world issues, including rapid responses to environmental crises such as floods and fires, and creative solutions for renewable energy, clean water, and protecting diverse flora and fauna. Each project underscored the power of open data and the collective ingenuity of our community to tackle the challenges that shape our world.

Our participants once again rose to the occasion, proving that when driven by passion and purpose, the GovHack community can turn ideas into transformative solutions that make a difference far beyond the competition itself.

The highlight of the year was undoubtedly the International Red Carpet Awards at the Canberra Southern Cross Club, where participants came together to celebrate their achievements. It was deeply moving to hear so many express that their greatest reward was the thrill of participating — with the unexpected delight of cash prizes adding an extra layer of joy. This passion and commitment are the very essence of GovHack.

Behind the scenes, it is our volunteers who make GovHack possible. Their tireless dedication, generosity of spirit, and unwavering support ensure that GovHack not only happens but thrives. We are endlessly grateful to every volunteer who devotes their time and expertise — not just on the competition weekend but throughout the year — to make this event the success it is.

As we close the chapter on GovHack 2024, let’s carry forward the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and community that defines this extraordinary event. Together, we have once again shown that when diverse minds unite with passion and purpose, we can drive positive change and craft solutions that resonate far beyond the competition.

Thank you for making GovHack 2024 an unforgettable milestone in our shared journey. Let’s continue to build a brighter future together.

Section 3

Our Community

GovHack is privileged to have a remarkable and diverse community of individuals, communities, and organisations spanning across the vast landscapes of Australia and New Zealand. While statistics can quantify our community's size, they can hardly encapsulate the depth of the impact this community has made.

Engagement and Communications

Throughout the year, our community has thrived through active engagement and communication. In 2024, our community engagement was more robust than ever before, as reflected in the following statistics:

• Number of Participants: 2805 individuals from diverse backgrounds and expertise participated in GovHack 2024. Their collective skills and creativity have been instrumental in driving innovation and addressing real-world challenges. This is the number of people that completed their 2024 GovHack hackathon submission.
• Online Collaboration: Our Slack channel has served as a vibrant hub for communication, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. With 7,132 Slack messages over the competition weekend, our Slack community has fostered discussions, provided support, and facilitated connections across borders
• Digital Outreach: GovHack's digital presence expanded significantly, with 52.9k digital impressions on LinkedIn and 110k digital reach on Facebook.. This broader reach has allowed us to share valuable insights, resources, and event updates.

Knowledge Sharing and Highlighted Achievements

In 2024, our commitment to knowledge sharing and celebrating achievements continued to be a cornerstone of GovHack's community spirit. We published 38 editions of our e-newsletter, each brimming with valuable insights, event highlights, and thought-provoking articles.

These newsletters have been instrumental in keeping our community informed about key initiatives, opportunities, and developments within the GovHack ecosystem.

Section 4

In the Media

In 2024, GovHack continued to attract attention from various media outlets, shedding light on the remarkable achievements of our community. Some of the notable mentions and stories from the year include:

• 7-year of Infosys’ collaboration with GovHack
• GovHack 2024 at VIC.GOV.AU
• GovHack 2024 at ACS.ORG.AU
• Celebrating the Best of GovHack 2024 🎉

Social Media Engagement

Our social media channels played a pivotal role in connecting our community, sharing updates, and fostering meaningful discussions throughout the year. Whether it was live video feeds from award ceremonies or engaging with our global audience, social media remained a vibrant hub for GovHack.

Social Media Insights

Our vibrant community members took to social media to share their experiences, insights, and accomplishments throughout the competition. These posts not only celebrated GovHack's achievements but also fostered a sense of community and collaboration. These community-generated posts capture the essence of GovHack's journey, from celebrating achievements to promoting open data and innovation. They serve as a testament to the passion and engagement of our community.

Section 5

Our People

The Backbone on GovHack

At the heart of GovHack lies a dedicated and passionate community of volunteers who selflessly contribute their time, expertise, and energy to make this organisation and the largest open data hackathon in the southern hemisphere a reality. GovHack 2024 would not have been possible without the unwavering commitment of these exceptional individuals.

The Roles of Our Volunteers

GovHack's volunteer ecosystem is structured into several key teams, each playing a pivotal role in shaping and executing the organisation's mission. These teams include:

• International Operations Team (IOT): Comprising dedicated individuals responsible for various aspects of GovHack's global operations, the IOT includes teams focused on data, technology, competition management, marketing & media, sponsorship coordination, government liaison, and regional leadership.
• Regional Teams: At a more localised level, our dedicated region teams mirror the functions of the IOT, serving as the driving force behind regional GovHack events, community engagement, and coordination.

Aiding the Cause

In addition to our volunteer teams, GovHack is fortunate to receive support from sponsors who provide invaluable expertise in the form of mentors, data custodians, and judges. While they may not be considered volunteers in the traditional sense, they are integral to the success of GovHack and are an essential part of our extended community.

• Mentors: Experts in various fields who generously share their knowledge and guidance with GovHack participants, offering insights, feedback, and mentorship throughout the competition. Their support is instrumental in helping participants bring their innovative ideas to life.
• Data Custodians: Guardians of the data resources that fuel GovHack, ensuring the availability, quality, and accessibility of vital datasets that participants use to create ideas and innovations.
• Judges: Professionals with expertise in diverse domains who impartially evaluate and recognise the outstanding projects created during GovHack, ensuring that innovation and creativity receive the recognition they deserve.

A Grateful Acknowledgement

GovHack extends its deepest appreciation to all these dedicated individuals, including the International Operations Team, regional teams, mentors, data custodians, and judges, who tirelessly contribute their time, expertise, and energy to make this organisation and the hackathon a reality. Their unwavering commitment is the lifeblood of our success, driving innovation, collaboration, and positive change.

As we reflect on the achievements of GovHack 2024, we recognise that our volunteers, mentors, data custodians, and judges are the true champions who make it all possible. We are immensely grateful for their dedication and look forward to continuing this journey together, united by a shared vision of positive change, innovation, and a brighter future for Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.

Section 6

The Competition

GovHack 2024 was a dynamic and innovative competition that brought together a diverse group of participants to tackle real-world challenges using open data. The competition's success was reflected in the following statistics:

• Number of Participants: GovHack 2024 witnessed more than 500 participants who brought their creativity and skills to the competition.
• Projects Submitted: In total, 187 projects were submitted, each representing an innovative solution that leveraged open data to address societal challenges.

Themes of Innovation

The competition's challenges were structured around three main themes that reflect the pressing issues of our time:

• Environment
• Social
• Governance

Prize Challenges

GovHack 2024 featured a range of prize challenges, each providing participants with unique opportunities to showcase their innovation and creativity. These challenges (summary & details) included:

Challenges - summary

• AI applications using Open Road Crash data
• AI in Governance
• Best Digital Twin Solution
• Boosting Tourism in the Northern Territory
• BudgetBuddie: Build a personal finance companion.
• Civic participation for a more resilient, cohesive democracy.
• Collaborative Intelligence for Clean Waters
• Connecting Communities: Your Guide to local Information and Services
• Crocodile Watch: Enhancing Public Safety
• Factors that influence education, skills and training choices of young people
• Forecasting Community Evolution: Leveraging AI and Historical Planning Data
• Improving the Accessibility of Online Government Services
• Innovating Wellbeing Measurement - Uncovering New Connections
• Moreton Bay Greening as We Grow (QLD)
• Place-based insights unlocked: Generative AI x Digital Atlas of Australia
• Planning NZ's electrical energy needs versus our generation capacity
• Renewable Energy Site Selection Model
• Smart infrastructure for data-driven decision making
• Smart Mobility: Optimizing Urban Infrastructure for a Sustainable Future
• SolarZero Challenge: Driving Climate Action Through Self-Service Solar Discovery
• Tax inclusion for vulnerable groups
• Use AI to transform bureaucratic jargon into plain English

Challenges - details

Hackerspace Engagement

GovHack 2024 was not just a competition; it was a community-driven endeavour that encouraged learning, collaboration, and exploration. The Hackerspace was instrumental in facilitating this engagement, as reflected in the following statistics:

GovHack 2024 was a testament to the power of open data, innovation, and collaboration. It showcased the creativity and dedication of its participants, who harnessed the potential of data to address pressing challenges and shape a better future for Australia, New Zealand, and the world.

Section 7

Red Carpet Awards

The International Red Carpet Awards were a momentous occasion for both our sponsors and participants, providing a unique platform to recognise and celebrate the outstanding teams that harnessed the potential of open data to create innovative and creative projects.

Event Details

The International Red Carpet Awards for GovHack 2024 were hosted in the stunning setting of the Canberra Southern Cross Club. The event took place on 30th November 2024, and it was a night filled with excitement, inspiration, and recognition. The evening was skillfully hosted by our esteemed MCs & a board director, Harshitha Rajashekara.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to every team that submitted a project. We deeply appreciate the dedication of the judges who evaluated these projects. The number of judges and projects exceeded our expectations, and their contributions were invaluable. The International Red Carpet Awards celebrated outstanding achievements across the national, and international award categories. With 18 winning entries, 15 runner-up projects, and 28 honourable mentions, the evening was a showcase of the best and brightest in the GovHack community.

A Few Favourites

Among the exceptional projects, a few undoubtedly stood out as favourites, exemplifying innovation, creativity, and impactful use of open data. Notable favourites from GovHack 2024 included:

• 'GovSnacks' by Just Bryce
  who won both the ‘AI in Governance’ and ‘Using AI to Transform Bureaucratic Jargon into Plain English’ challenges, by developing an intuitive webtool that instantly converts complex government documents into clear everyday information.
• SustainAI by SustainAI
  who won ‘A Renewable Energy Site Selection Model’ using AI to pinpoint exactly where Australia should build its next solar farms, turning months of potential site prospecting into a series of smart, data-driven decisions.
• Haven by URL
  who won ‘Place-based Insights Unlocked: Generative AI x Digital Atlas of Australia’, creating an emergency bushfire platform that gives personalised, real-time information based on GPS location and analysis of evacuation routes, and government advice.

These standout projects left an indelible mark, inspiring the GovHack community with their ingenuity and vision.

Section 8

The Numbers

In GovHack 2024, the numbers spoke volumes about the scale and impact of this incredible event. Here's a breakdown of the statistics by region, showcasing the diversity and breadth of participation:

These numbers reflect the remarkable diversity and talent within the GovHack community, highlighting the dedication and innovation of teams from regions across Australia and New Zealand. It's a testament to the power of open data and collaboration in driving positive change and creative solutions.

Section 9

Thank Yous

GovHack 2024 would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors who share our vision of fostering innovation, collaboration, and the transformative power of open data. Their commitment and contributions have played a vital role in making this event a reality. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to each sponsor, recognizing their dedication to driving positive change in our communities and empowering the GovHack community to push the boundaries of innovation. Below, you'll find a breakdown of our sponsors by their sponsorship level, highlighting the integral role they played in GovHack 2023.

International Sponsor

Australian National Sponsors

Australian National Partner

Red Carpets Awards Sponsor

Australian Capital Territory Sponsors

New South Wales Sponsors

Northern Territory Sponsors

Queensland Sponsors and Partners

South Australia Sponsors

Victoria Sponsors

Western Australia Sponsors

Volunteers

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers who dedicated their time and energy to GovHack 2024. Their contributions were invaluable, and we deeply appreciate their commitment to making this event a success.

GovHack 2025

As we bid farewell to GovHack 2024, we eagerly look ahead to the future and the exciting possibilities that GovHack 2025 holds. The next edition of this transformative open data hackathon promises to be even more innovative and impactful. We invite you to stay connected and be a part of the journey by exploring our social media channels, subscribing to our newsletters, and considering opportunities for sponsorship and volunteering. Join us in shaping a brighter future through the power of open data!

GovHack will be back in 2025 on the weekend of 29—31 August!

Stay Connected!

• Follow us on multiple social media platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, and Slack for the latest updates, news, and announcements.
• Subscribe to our GovHack Newsletter to receive exclusive insights and updates.
• Visit our official website at govhack.org for comprehensive information about GovHack 2025.

Get Involved!

• Explore sponsorship opportunities to support GovHack 2025 and gain valuable exposure.
• Join our dedicated team of volunteers and contribute to the success of GovHack 2025.

GovHack 2025 is on the horizon, and we can't wait to embark on this exciting journey with you. Together, we'll continue to harness the potential of open data to drive innovation, collaboration, and positive change. Let's make GovHack 2025 a resounding success!

Section 11