Australia’s inaugural AI Month kicks off today, putting Australia’s innovative and world class AI industry under the spotlight and championing the responsible creation and adoption of AI technologies.

Australia’s AI Month is an initiative of the National AI Centre (NAIC), which sits within Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO. The initiative is central to the NAIC’s mission to pave the way for a responsible and inclusive AI future for Australia.

AI Month will see more than 50 events take place across the country, highlighting the successes and challenges of Australia’s AI industry, and encouraging Australians to discuss the critical role of responsible and safe approaches to its adoption.

To mark the beginning of AI Month, the Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic officially opened a new AI exhibition at Questacon, Australia’s National Science and Technology Centre, this morning.

The exhibition, Friend or Foe – The Rise of Artificial Intelligence explores society’s relationship with generative AI through a series of digital artworks curated by Australian technologist and digital artist Luke Millanta.

Minister Husic also announced that CSIRO’s data and digital arm, Data61, will join forces with the University of Queensland (UQ). Swinburne, UNSW, Curtin and ANU to keep Aussies safe at work using the latest digital technologies.

The $18 million Tech4HSE program will commission research in generative and immersive AI, augmented reality and cybersecurity, to develop tech to aid those working in dangerous environments.

The technologies developed will support health, safety and environmental (HSE) objectives across wide range of dangerous industries, starting with the energy industry. 
AI Month runs until 15 December 2023.

Quotes attributable to the Hon Ed Husic, Minister for Industry and Science:

“I’m looking forward to celebrating excellence and innovation in Australian AI during our first AI month.

“The Albanese Government is committed to positioning Australia as a leader in developing and adopting trusted, secure and responsible artificial intelligence.

“AI presents a huge opportunity to boost productivity, but we must help make sure the design, development and deployment of AI technologies is safe and responsible.

“Questacon’s new exhibition positions humans at the heart of AI design and invites audiences to consider their current and future use of AI.

“This Government is putting benefits for Australians at the heart of AI and digital initiatives – to help ensure secure, well-paying jobs and services that serve communities with tech that people can trust.”