The Tech Council of Australia welcomes the discussion paper released by the Government today on the steps Australia can take to mitigate the risks of AI.
Tech Council CEO Kate Pounder said that AI technologies present significant opportunities for Australia, but fit-for-purpose regulatory and governance frameworks are essential to reap the benefits.
“AI technologies can help address some of the most significant economic, social and environmental challenges facing Australia, from boosting sluggish productivity growth, to driving breakthroughs in medical treatments and strengthening our cyber security.”
“However, ensuring AI is a net gain to our country means it has to be safe, trusted and responsible. We have an exceptional opportunity now to shape AI.”
“While Australia and other countries around the world have focused on the development of AI ethics frameworks, now is the time to start the discussion on whether stronger governance regimes are needed.”
“This is just as important for providing businesses with investment certainty as it is for protecting consumers.”
“It’s a common misconception that AI in Australia is unregulated. While we don’t have AI specific laws, there are a range of existing laws that apply in areas such as privacy, anti-discrimination, consumer protection, intellectual property and work, health and safety.”
“We welcome the methodical, risk-based approach proposed by Minister Husic to first assess the existing regulatory landscape and the effectiveness of those laws, to help identify the gaps and areas in need of reform.”
“As we go forward, it will be critical to ensure any government interventions are proportionate and risk-based so we can maximise the benefits of AI technologies for Australia.”
The Tech Council is a partner of the National AI Centre’s Responsible AI Network and is also a member of the expert reference group for the UTS Human Technology Institute’s research project on the Future of AI Regulation in Australia.
