Businesses in Australia are set to play a more significant role in shaping regulations around artificial intelligence (AI) as the government plans to create a new advisory body focused on AI rules.
Industry and Science Minister Ed Husic announced the formation of a temporary expert panel on AI in response to a review by the Department of Industry, Science and Resources. The panel, heavy on academics, is working on defining high-risk AI applications and exploring potential mandatory guidelines for these technologies.
One key consideration for the panel is the model for future AI laws, which could impact industries like healthcare, finance, and housing. The regulations may prohibit specific practices or set general standards to prevent discrimination.
Moving forward, the government is looking to establish a permanent expert group that will include more business representatives, given that companies will be the primary users of AI tools. The advisory body will aim to address concerns around the potential for AI to facilitate discrimination or political bias, particularly in sensitive sectors like health, finance, and media.
The shift comes as the Australian tech industry anticipates AI to be a top trend this year, with stakeholders like the Tech Council of Australia and the Business Council of Australia welcoming the government’s plans to involve the business community in AI policymaking.
While proponents of AI highlight its productivity-boosting potential, detractors are wary of its discriminatory implications. The European Union has already taken steps to regulate AI, including bans on practices like social scoring.
As Australia navigates its approach to AI regulation, stakeholders emphasize the importance of balancing innovation with safeguards to protect workers’ rights and consumers’ interests. The focus is on leveraging existing legal frameworks and regulatory practices to ensure responsible AI deployment that upholds standards of privacy, fairness, and transparency.
Ultimately, the goal is to harness AI’s transformative power for economic growth and job creation while mitigating risks associated with its use. The government’s inclusive approach to shaping AI regulations reflects a commitment to fostering a competitive and ethical AI landscape in Australia.
