The Australian government has introduced a new policy for implementing a unified strategy to harness the potential of AI effectively. The ‘Policy for the Responsible Use of AI in Government’ aims to position the Australian government as a model for the safe and ethical application of AI technologies. The policy introduces principles, mandatory requirements, and recommended actions to keep pace with advancements in technology and community expectations.
It is designed to unify the government’s approach by providing baseline requirements on governance, assurance, and transparency of AI. Lucy Poole, General Manager for Strategy, Planning, and Performance at the Digital Transformation Agency (DTA), stated, “This policy will ensure the Australian Government demonstrates leadership in embracing AI to benefit Australians. Engaging with AI in a safe, ethical, and responsible way is how we will meet community expectations and build public trust.”
One of the core objectives of the policy is to strengthen public trust in the government’s use of AI.
This is achieved by implementing measures such as monitoring and evaluating performance, increasing transparency about AI use, and standardizing governance practices. The DTA noted, “The biggest challenge to the successful adoption of AI is a lack of public trust around government’s adoption and use. The policy addresses these concerns by implementing both mandatory and optional measures for agencies.”
The policy emphasizes a forward-leaning, adaptive approach to the government’s use of AI, recognizing the rapidly changing nature of the technology.
It requires agencies to remain flexible and responsive to technological and policy changes.
Unified approach to AI strategy
To help implement the policy, the DTA has published guidelines for Agency Officials (AOs) to lead their agencies in enhancing AI governance.
These officials are expected to balance risk management and innovation, enhance responsiveness to AI policy changes, and promote cross-government collaboration. The DTA will also release a standard for AI transparency statements, detailing the information agencies should make publicly available. This includes the agency’s intentions for using AI, categories of use that involve direct public interaction, governance measures, compliance with laws, and protections against negative impacts.
The AI policy recommends that agencies implement AI fundamentals training for all staff within six months of the policy taking effect. Additional training should be provided based on staff roles and responsibilities, especially for those involved in the development and deployment of AI systems. Agencies are also required to publicly outline their approach to AI adoption and use within six months, with statements reviewed and updated annually.
The public should be informed about compliance with the policy, measures to monitor AI effectiveness, and efforts to mitigate negative impacts. As AI continues to evolve, the Australian government aims to integrate it across departments while maintaining transparency, accountability, and public trust. Further guidance on additional opportunities and measures will be issued in the coming months.
