Australian Government Agencies to Publicly Outline AI Use

The new Australian Public Service (APS) guidelines mandate government agencies to publicly outline the use of AI within six months and appoint an accountable official to ensure its safe deployment.

The federal government recently unveiled its policy for the responsible use of AI within government, covering all departments and agencies except for those in defense and the “national security community,"  which includes ASIO and the ASD.

With an aim to make the government an “exemplar in the use of AI safely,” the policy lists out mandatory requirements for agencies regarding AI usage. In essence, the policy revolves around how APS will embrace the benefits of AI, strengthen public trust in it, and adapt over time to evolutions in the technology and in policy environments.

“This policy will ensure the Australian government demonstrates leadership in embracing AI to benefit Australians,” said Digital Transformation Agency general manager for strategy, planning, and performance Lucy Poole.

“Engaging with AI in a safe, ethical, and responsible way is how we will meet community expectations and build public trust.”

In addition, the policy strongly emphasizes that all agencies must conduct AI fundamentals training for all employees within the next six months, along with additional training for the staff closely involved with AI use.

The new policy for AI usage in the Australian government comes into effect at the start of September.