Australia Launches Advisory Body to Address AI Risks
In a move to enhance oversight and mitigate the risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI), the Australian government announced on Wednesday the establishment of an advisory body dedicated to addressing AI-related challenges. This decision puts Australia on par with other countries that have implemented regulatory measures to govern the use of AI technology.
To further bolster its AI governance efforts, the Australian government also intends to collaborate with industry organizations to introduce a set of guidelines. These guidelines will encourage technology companies to adopt practices such as labeling and watermarking content generated through AI systems.
Highlighting the potential economic growth AI can bring, Science and Industry Minister Ed Husic noted that its adoption in various business sectors remains inconsistent. He acknowledged the existing trust concerns surrounding AI technology, emphasizing the need to address them to foster greater acceptance and adoption.
While Australia has been a pioneer in establishing the world’s first eSafety Commissioner in 2015, it has lagged behind some other nations in terms of regulating AI. To bridge this gap, the Australian government launched a consultation on AI last year, receiving over 500 responses from stakeholders.
In its interim response, the government plans to differentiate between low-risk applications of AI, such as spam email filtering, and high-risk scenarios involving the creation of manipulated content, including deep fakes.
Unlike the European Union, which has made AI regulations mandatory for technology companies, Australia’s initial guidelines will be voluntary. This approach aims to strike a balance between oversight and industry participation.
The government is expected to provide a comprehensive response to the consultation later this year. By doing so, it intends to address the concerns surrounding AI, foster responsible use, and create a conducive environment for AI innovation in Australia.
Sources:
– [Australia Launches Advisory Body for AI Risks, Introduces Guidelines for Technology Companies](insert link here)
