The Albanese Government is taking further steps to ensure the growth of artificial intelligence technologies (AI) in Australia is safe and responsible.

The Albanese Government is today releasing two papers to begin a discussion to ensure appropriate safeguards are in place in relation to these critical technologies. 

The Government’s Safe and Responsible AI in Australia Discussion Paper canvasses existing regulatory and governance responses in Australia and overseas, identifies potential gaps and proposes several options to strengthen the framework governing the safe and responsible use of AI.

The National Science and Technology Council’s paper Rapid Response Report: Generative AI assesses potential risks and opportunities in relation to AI, providing a scientific basis for discussions about the way forward.

While Australia already has some safeguards in place in relation to AI, it’s appropriate that Australia consider whether these regulatory and governance mechanisms are fit for purpose.

Today’s discussion paper builds on Labor’s longstanding commitment to the safe and responsible use of AI. 

Because of Labor’s advocacy, Australia became one of the first countries in the world to adopt AI Ethics Principles. 

Since coming to Government, we have backed our commitment by investing $41 million in the most recent Budget for the responsible development of AI through the National AI Centre and a new Responsible AI Adopt program for small and medium enterprises. 

The Government’s Safe and Responsible AI in Australia Discussion Paper and The National Science and Technology Council’s paper Rapid Response Report: Generative AI can be found here.

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

“Using AI safely and responsibly is a balancing act the whole world is grappling with at the moment.

“The upside is massive, whether it’s fighting superbugs with new AI-developed antibiotics or preventing online fraud.

“But as I have been saying for many years, there needs to be appropriate safeguards to ensure the safe and responsible use of AI. 

“We’ve made a good start, thanks to the Government’s $41 million investment in AI for industry and our strong advocacy in this space.

“Today is about what we do next to build trust and public confidence in these critical technologies.”