AI for Defence
4-Hour Intensive Course
Prepared for Downer Group · by Rupert Chesman
The Challenge
Course Overview
AI Foundations
Build practical AI skills — from understanding how models work, to prompt engineering, strategic thinking with AI, and automating workflows with approved tools.
Modules 1–4
Defence Context
Navigate the Australian policy stack, approved providers, data sovereignty, shadow AI risks, and build your team's AI usage policy aligned to ISM-2074.
Modules 5–8
8 modules · 44 interactive lessons · Hands-on exercises throughout
AI Foundations & Mental Models
- What AI Actually Is (and Isn't)
- How Large Language Models Work
- Tokens, Context Windows & Temperature
- Hallucinations & Limitations
- Model Comparison: ChatGPT vs Claude vs Gemini vs Copilot
- Building Your AI Mental Model
Key takeaway: Build an accurate mental model of what AI can and can't do — no hype, no fear.
Prompt Engineering
- The Act-Explain-Please Framework
- Prompt Scaffolding Techniques
- Chain-of-Thought Prompting
- Few-Shot & Zero-Shot Strategies
- Advanced Prompt Patterns
- Prompt Library: Defence-Ready Templates
Key takeaway: Go from vague requests to precise, repeatable prompts that get reliable results.
Thinking With AI
- AI as a Thinking Partner
- Decision-Making Frameworks
- Brainstorming & Ideation with AI
- Analysis & Strategic Planning
- Critical Evaluation of AI Output
Key takeaway: Use AI to sharpen your thinking — not replace it.
AI Workflows & Productivity
- Chat vs Workflow vs Agent
- Building Multi-Step AI Systems
- Microsoft 365 Copilot Essentials
- Document & Email Automation
- AI for Meetings & Collaboration
- Practical Automation Projects
Key takeaway: Automate the repetitive work so your team can focus on what matters.
The Australian AI Policy Stack
- The Policy Hierarchy: DTA, PSPF, Defence & ISM
- Defence AI Centre (DAIC) & Governance
- The Classification Boundary
- ISM-2074 & the AI Usage Policy Requirement
- DISP Membership & AI Obligations
Key takeaway: Know exactly which policies govern your AI use — and what each one requires.
Data Sovereignty & Approved Providers
- The 18 Approved Providers
- Where Your Data Actually Goes
- Consumer vs Enterprise: The Data Delta
- Data Residency Is Not Sovereignty
- AUKUS, Five Eyes & Cross-Border Data
Key takeaway: Understand where your data lives, who can access it, and why it matters.
Shadow AI & Data Breaches
Lesson details to be confirmed
Safe Usage, Adversarial Risks & Your Checklist
Lesson details to be confirmed
What Your Team Will Gain
Practical AI Fluency
Every participant leaves able to write effective prompts, evaluate AI output critically, and use approved tools confidently.
Policy Compliance
Full understanding of PSPF Advisory 001-2025, ISM-2074, Defence Policy Settings, and DISP obligations — reducing audit risk.
Data Protection
Know exactly which providers are approved, where data goes, and how to prevent shadow AI leaks of sensitive information.
Productivity Uplift
Hands-on workflows for document automation, meeting prep, and strategic analysis — using tools your team already has.
Delivery Format
Investment
+ GST (AUD)
4-hour in-person workshop for up to 20 participants
Full course materials and 44 interactive online lessons
Post-session access to the AI for Defence learning portal
Travel costs apply for delivery outside Sydney, Australia
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