In a datathon, you use creativity, communication and collaboration to solve an interesting data-related problem. They’re opportunities to try new things, learn from others, build connections — and have fun!
Melbourne’s first Datathon for Social Good shares those ingredients, but your efforts will enable positive social impact. Better yet, we centre the leadership and participation of women and minority groups.
Our aim is to foster diversity in the local scene, encourage current and future data scientists to consider careers and volunteering in the social sector, and foreground the ethical application of data science.
With thanks to the Ella & Mitchell Brazier Fund, Charles Lamond Forrest Estate, James Raymond Hartley Charitable Trust, Charles Frederick William Taylor Estate and Truby & Florence Williams Charitable Trust.
Data Science, Faster
This year’s datathon will serve Community Hubs Australia, a not-for-profit organisation that helps build social cohesion.
Community Hubs and their programs are gateways that engage and support migrant women with young children. There are already dozens of Hubs in operation, and this year will see further expansion.
The motivating challenge in this datathon will be to use provided and public data to learn more about the activities and impacts of Hubs.
| Sat 22 Feb | Launch event (problem & data release, form teams) |
| Sun 23 Feb | ‘Hack day’ |
| Tue 31 Mar | Revised submission deadline |
| Thu 30 Apr | Awards presentation video-conference |
Due to COVID-19 lockdown, the submission deadline is extended and the awards presentation will be held online.
Everything will take place in Our Community House, a values-driven coworking space located in North Melbourne (see on Google Maps).
Our Community House sits on the edge of Nerm (the Boonwurrung word for Port Phillip Bay). We acknowledge and pay respect to the original and continuing custodians of this land, the people of the Kulin nation.
Do I need to register?
This event has finished. Find out what happened!
Do I need data science and/or coding skills?
Not necessarily! Most participants will be data scientists, data analysts or students learning those skills, but strong teams will have a mix of talents and perspectives.
How much does it cost?
Nothing but your time!
How do teams work?
Teams will be formed during the launch event. The number of teams will be based on our mentoring capacity. You don’t need to know anyone when you show up! It’ll also be possible to work with friends or colleagues who have registered, but you don’t need to confirm anything in advance.
What is the likely time commitment?
We suggest that to get the most out of it, you will need to attend the days listed in the schedule above (~10 hours) and put in another 4-12 hours of your own time prior to submission on 20 March. Some people may put in more time than that, but it is not expected.
What should I bring?
Your enthusiasm, a laptop, power cable.
Will there be catering?
Yes, there will be refreshments and lunch on the first two days and refreshments and finger food at the awards ceremony.
What are my transport/parking options?
Public transport: Our Community House is a 10-min walk from North Melbourne station, 15-min walk from Flagstaff Station or 2-min walk from the 57 tram, which stops at Errol St/Victoria St. See PTV for further public transport information.
Cycling: There are bicycle racks on the corner near the building entrance, and shower access can be provided on request.
Car parking: There are free 2-hr parking spots around the building, including on Victoria St — here’s a complete parking map. There’s also a paid lot on Curzon St near Queensberry St with reasonable rates.
Have a question or want to support the datathon? For all enquiries, please email Sarah Barker.