Over the weekend, Accor Stadium saw a turnout of over 80,000 fans each night for Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour – making it one of the largest ever crowds at Sydney Olympic Park. To manage this huge crowd, new artificial intelligence (AI) technology was used, combining de-identified information from CCTV cameras with environmental data and social media to provide real-time anonymous insights into crowd density, mood, and flow.
Funded by the Digital Restart Fund (DRF), the Creating Safer Crowded Places project is a strong example of the NSW Government’s commitment to digital innovation. The DRF has played a pivotal role in supporting numerous digital initiatives aimed at enhancing outcomes for the community, government and the NSW economy.
This article describes how the AI technology works and its benefits for the public (with a few Tay Tay puns thrown in for good measure).
‘Out of the Woods’: How the AI technology works
This innovative platform draws data from the CCTV network, social media, and environmental systems to generate insights on crowd behaviour and mood while ensuring visitor anonymity.
The AI technology enables the operations team at Sydney Olympic Park to make data-driven decisions to enhance public safety and improve the overall experience at these events. For instance, if there’s a noticeable drop in crowd mood, staff can take proactive measures such as opening extra exits or making announcements.
The trial has been rigorously assessed by the NSW Government’s AI Assurance Framework to ensure the new technology is ethical and delivers real benefits to the community without compromising privacy or data security.
AI’s ‘Wildest Dreams’ for event crowd safety
This initiative is a great example of the NSW Government trialling the use of AI to benefit communities while upholding accountability and privacy. The technology has been tested and trialled at various large-scale events at Sydney Olympic Park, including the FIFA Women’s World Cup, State of Origin and Ed Sheeran concerts.
The AI program allows teams to prevent problems before they occur and implement a range of measures like redirecting people, giving live updates, deploying more staff or playing music to keep the mood up.
Crowds are ‘All Too Well’ protected
With events like the Taylor Swift concerts drawing massive crowds, these AI-driven tools help safety decisions and mitigate potential incidents. Public safety is a top priority at Sydney Olympic Park, particularly during major events when risks associated with crowded places are heightened.
The technology also provides valuable insights into how weather events like extreme heat or heavy rain affect impact crowd behaviour, allowing for more effective crowd management strategies.
From ‘Blank Space’ to safe space
The AI technology helps ensure that attendees have a safe and enjoyable experience. To promote transparency and engagement, signs with QR codes have been placed around the stadium for people interested in learning more about the technology and providing feedback.
The use of new AI technology at Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour represents a significant step in enhancing event safety and management while prioritising privacy and accountability.
Learn more about the Digital Restart Fund and the AI Assurance Framework.