The Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) has reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to developing a robust framework to govern the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI), including prioritising the ‘human element’.
DTA chief executive, Chris Fechner, told a panel hosted by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) at the Harvard Business School Online Community that Australia intends for AI use to align with pre-existing values of its public sector institutions and a strong ethics process.
“This means being exemplars of high standards and assurance frameworks, based on international best practices and public expectations, that are tested through pilots and use-cases.
“There is a long history here in AI making use of traditional machine learning and deep learning neural networks, which naturally meant staff developed highly specialised skills across these areas of application.
“However, generative AI is spreading into a wider population without that deep knowledge. We must take immediate action to provide training and education, supported by the industry, to both public servants and the general public.”
Fechner also confirmed Australia’s focus on structuring AI around citizen needs and reducing any risk of irresponsible use.
“Governments are uniquely placed in that everything they do ought to increase the amenity of society,” Fechner said.
“All government services need to be organized around citizens, and be inclusive, simple, and secure. All our decisions around digital investment, including incorporating AI solutions, are constrained by that goal.
“Australia is taking advantage of the hype of AI by working across Government to find the high-value, lower-risk applications. This needs to be done in a fully transparent and responsible way. It’s not a case of convincing leaders but rather managing their high expectations.”
Fechner was also joined on the panel by moderator, Barbara-Chiara Ubaldi, Head of Digital Government and Data Unit and Deputy Head of Open and Innovative Government Division at OECD and Giorleny Altamirano Rayo, Chief Data Scientist & Responsible of Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the United States Department of State (State Department).
