The Australian government is actively considering introducing mandatory regulations for high-risk AI development. The move follows growing public concern about the safety and ethical implications of rapidly advancing AI technologies and demands by publishers for fair compensation for premium content used in AI training.
The government’s approach is formed on five principles: using a risk-based framework, avoiding undue burdens, open engagement, consistency with the Bletchley Declaration and prioritizing people and communities in regulatory development. Concerns addressed include inaccuracies in AI model inputs and outputs, biased training data, lack of transparency, and the potential for discriminatory results.
Current initiatives to address AI risks include the AI in Government Task Force, reforms to privacy laws, cybersecurity considerations, and the development of a regulatory framework for automated vehicles. These efforts are consistent with the Australian Government’s commitment to the safe and responsible deployment of AI.
The focus is on high-risk AI applications, such as those in healthcare, employment and law enforcement. The government is proposing a combination of mandatory and voluntary measures to mitigate these risks. Transparency in AI, including the labeling of AI-generated content, is also a key consideration.
Internationally, Australia’s regulatory position on artificial intelligence is more aligned with the US and the UK, which favor a softer approach, as opposed to the EU’s stricter AI Act. This balanced approach allows the government to address both the known and potential risks of AI technologies, ensuring safety and ethical use.
The Australian Government will continue to work with states and territories to strengthen regulatory frameworks. Possible steps include introducing mandatory safeguards for high-risk AI settings, considering legislative means for these safeguards, and specific obligations for the development of boundary AI models. A temporary expert advisory group is also being established to guide the development of artificial intelligence handrails.
In summary, while recognizing the potential of AI to improve quality of life and economic growth, the Australian government is taking careful steps to ensure the safe, responsible and ethical development and deployment of AI technologies, particularly in high-risk scenarios.
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