In a significant move to promote the development of AI technologies while ensuring their safe and responsible use, the Australian Government is taking further steps to strengthen the existing regulatory framework. 

Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic stated that using AI safely and responsibly is a balancing act. 

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

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

The government unveiled two pivotal papers that initiated a crucial dialogue aimed at establishing appropriate safeguards concerning these critical technologies.  

The first of these, titled “Safe and Responsible AI in Australia Discussion Paper,” meticulously explores the existing regulatory and governance responses both in Australia and overseas.  

By identifying potential gaps in the current framework, the paper proposes a range of options to fortify the oversight governing the safe and responsible implementation of AI. 

The second paper released by the National Science and Technology Council, titled “Rapid Response Report: Generative AI,” presents a comprehensive assessment of potential risks and opportunities associated with AI. The report aims to facilitate informed discussions on the future trajectory of AI implementation. 

Related: ‘Godfather of AI’ leaves Google, warns danger of the new tech 

The publication of the paper builds upon Labor’s long-standing commitment to promoting the safe and responsible utilization of AI technologies. 

The government has also allocated a substantial investment of $41 million in the most recent budget to bolster the responsible development of AI through the establishment of the National AI Centre.  

Additionally, a new program called Responsible AI Adopt has been introduced, specifically targeting small and medium enterprises. 

“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,” Minister Husic said. 

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

Eliza Sayon

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Eliza is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum. She is an experienced writer on topics related to the government and to the public, as well as stories that uplift and improve the community.

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