The Western Australian Government has launched the Expressions of Interest (EOI) for its newly formed Artificial Intelligence (AI) Advisory Board. This initiative aims to ensure the responsible and ethical integration of AI in public sector operations. The Office of Digital Government, under the Department of the Premier and Cabinet, created the Board to deliver strategic direction for the responsible, clear, and community-focused integration of AI technologies.

This expression of interest invites individuals with extensive knowledge in artificial intelligence, ethics, privacy, and public policy to shape the development of policies and best practices for AI implementation across government services in Western Australia. “The establishment of this board underscores our commitment to ethical AI use and digital transformation that directly benefits the community,” said WA’s Chief Digital Officer. “We are calling on industry leaders who can bring diverse insights and uphold values of transparency, fairness, and accountability in AI.”

Guiding ethical AI governance

The Board aligns its mandate with the principles set forth in the Artificial Intelligence Policy and the Artificial Intelligence Assurance Framework, introduced by the WA Government in March 2024. The established frameworks provide a foundation for overseeing AI, emphasising the importance of responsible, ethical, and secure practices in its use. The Board will serve as a crucial advisory entity, providing insights on:

• Ethics and human rights in AI: The Board advocates the protection of human rights by promoting fairness, transparency, and accountability in AI applications. This highlights ongoing national conversations about the ethics of artificial intelligence, as shown by the Victorian Law Reform Commission’s consultation paper on AI in judicial settings.
• Privacy and security: The Board stresses the need for robust data privacy and security protocols when implementing AI in the public sector. Norton Rose Fulbright examines AI implementation in Australia, highlighting the growing concerns about AI and data security amidst privacy considerations.
• Digital transformation and innovation: The Board pushes for the implementation of AI to boost efficiency, improve public services, and drive innovation across government agencies. The Australian Government focuses on transformation through artificial intelligence, as shown by its efforts during AI Month 2024.

The AI Advisory Board actively influences AI governance and data management and drives comprehensive digital transformation in the public sector of Western Australia. The Board guarantees the responsible and ethical application of AI technologies for the benefit of the WA community.

Key qualifications for ethical AI

The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Advisory Board of the Western Australian Government seeks board members with a diverse and comprehensive skill set to drive the ethical, responsible, and impactful integration of AI in public sector initiatives. Individuals who want to join the board must meet specific fundamental criteria, which include:

1. AI and machine learning expertise: Applicants need practical experience in AI technologies, a thorough understanding of algorithms, and familiarity with international AI regulatory frameworks. Understanding this knowledge is crucial for evaluating AI applications that meet regulatory and ethical standards, particularly as AI takes on a significant role in public services. The ideal candidate has experience deploying AI that aligns with global governance standards, ensuring WA’s benchmarks meet the best practices observed internationally.
2. Ethics and Human Rights in AI: Board members must possess a deep understanding of the ethical challenges associated with AI, especially regarding the safeguarding of human rights, the mitigation of biases, and the promotion of fairness. The WA Government commits to safeguarding human rights in AI applications, as outlined in its AI Assurance Framework. Experts will guide policies that prevent bias and ensure fairness while tackling potential risks linked to automated decision-making in public health, social services, and law enforcement.

Preferred qualifications include expertise in data privacy, change management, and public policy, especially regarding the application of AI in governmental contexts. The Board will leverage expertise in digital transformation and change management to drive AI initiatives that enhance government efficiency and responsiveness to community needs.

Driving inclusive AI governance

The AI Advisory Board of the Western Australian Government shows a strong commitment to inclusivity and diverse representation, recognising that varying perspectives are essential for fairer AI governance that serves all citizens. The Office of Digital Government actively invites applications from leaders representing diverse backgrounds, including individuals with disabilities, those from the LGBTQI+ community, and people from culturally and linguistically varied communities.

“Inclusive representation is essential to ensure AI solutions serve everyone equitably,” stated a representative from the office, echoing the Board’s commitment to developing policies that address the needs of Washington’s varied community. The Board actively fosters diversity by pursuing individuals who provide distinct insights into the impact of AI on underrepresented communities, not just through representation. 

The Board actively fosters applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals and gender-diverse candidates to tackle potential biases in AI and promote equitable automated decision-making that affects communities at all levels. This strategy aligns with WA’s overarching objectives for digital inclusion by emphasising the importance of technological solutions that enhance accessibility and fairness.

Joining the AI board

The Western Australian Government has launched its Expressions of Interest process for the AI Advisory Board, inviting experienced professionals to play a crucial role in the ethical deployment of AI in the public sector. Board members will begin a preliminary two-year term, with the chance for extension based on performance and evolving requirements. Members convene every three months to provide guidance on the AI policies and standards of WA.

“This initiative is a crucial step towards responsible AI integration,” remarked the Office of Digital Government, emphasising the Board’s pivotal role in defining Washington’s digital landscape. To become members of the Board, individuals must submit a comprehensive Expression of Interest, including an up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a two-page statement that addresses both the essential and desirable criteria. 

The CV should showcase the candidate’s professional background, emphasising experience relevant to AI, data privacy, ethics, and human rights and aligning with the board’s essential and desirable qualifications. The two-page document must clearly outline each pertinent criterion and detail the applicant’s proficiency in fields such as AI regulation, change management, or public policy development.

This initiative represents a significant step forward in the responsible and ethical integration of AI in the Western Australian government. The AI Advisory Board will play a crucial role in shaping the evolution of digital government, making sure that AI technologies benefit every community member.

Justin Lance Marcel Lavadia

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Justin Lavadia is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum with a diverse writing background spanning various niches and formats. With a wealth of experience, he brings clarity and concise communication to digital content. His expertise lies in crafting engaging content and delivering impactful narratives that resonate with readers.

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