“I Am Not a Number” – A powerful new documentary premieres on SBS On Demand
Author
Date 19 May 2025
A timely and compelling documentary exploring the human cost of digital transformation in public services, created by researchers from the ARC Centre of Excellence for Automated Decision-Making and Society (ADM+S) in collaboration with ROBONDIS activists, will be premiering from 2:00 pm tomorrow on SBS Demand.
The documentary I Am Not a Number (2024) investigates the real-life consequences of algorithm-driven decision-making in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The film explores the complex intersection of technology, bureaucracy, and lived experience—revealing the disconnection between digital efficiency and human need.
Directed by Jeni Lee in collaboration with Georgia van Toorn, and ROBONDIS activists, I Am Not a Number follows seven individuals—Mark, Marie, Erin, Paris, Olisama, Paul, and Kaili—whose lives have been profoundly affected by technological changes.
As the Australian Government aspires to lead the world in digital innovation. Initiatives in digital governance have seen the introduction of algorithms for NDIS support planning. While the government’s vision promises efficiency and modernisation, the reality is far more complex.
Through deeply personal stories, the documentary uncovers how the inflexible nature of these algorithms has not only failed to meet their needs but has also caused significant harm to the very people it aimed to support.
With research consultancy from academics Sarah Pink and Thao Phan, and produced with the support of consultant producer Anna Grieve, I Am Not a Number is a must-watch for policymakers, advocates, and all Australians concerned about the future of public service in a digital age.
Watch I Am Not a Number from 2:00 PM tomorrow, exclusively on SBS On Demand.
