In light of increasing worldwide apprehensions regarding the potential dangers posed by artificial intelligence (AI), the Australian government has launched an extensive examination of AI technology
Led by Industry and Science Minister Ed Husic, the objective of this review is to seek input from diverse stakeholders in order to develop a fresh regulatory structure for AI and protect against the dangers posed by artificial intelligence.
The Australian government’s consultative approach to AI regulation includes an eight-week review process involving the release of two papers. The first paper examines generative AI’s opportunities and risks, while the second paper studies AI regulation efforts in other nations, such as the United States and the United Kingdom.
A ‘rapid response’ report that examines the potential benefits and drawbacks of generative AI is one of the papers that the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) has commissioned.
The subsequent phase involves a consultation document that explores the approaches taken by other countries worldwide in addressing AI regulation.
We want people to be confident that the technology is working for us and not the other way around
Minister Husic emphasised the need for a community-focused framework for technology, stating the importance of public involvement in addressing expectations and concerns. “We want people to be confident that the technology is working for us and not the other way around”
Addressing high-risk AI applications with existing laws
In order to address high-risk AI applications, there are ongoing efforts to utilise existing laws as a foundation for regulatory measures. The Australian government maintains a strong focus on the “high-risk” aspects of AI, including facial recognition technology.
The country stands ready to take regulatory action if the consultation process identifies potential dangers posed by artificial intelligence that warrant intervention.
Husic also shared his thoughts on this matter, “If facial recognition was being developed and used in ways that were outside what the community think is acceptable, then clearly we will be taking a very deep look at that.”
During the ongoing review, existing regulations in Australia, including sector-specific rules and general industry standards, govern AI operations, and the review will determine whether to strengthen these regulations, introduce specific AI legislation, or both.
Husic elaborated on this, “We need the framework right, that people are confident that it’s working in favour or for the benefit of communities – it’s really important.”
Australia’s battle against AI
The Australian government’s initiative is in line with worldwide attempts to control artificial intelligence (AI), and comparable discussions about AI advancement are now taking place in the United States and the European Union.
For example, The Australian government is closely monitoring the U.K.’s review and the EU’s deliberations on AI regulation while also considering recent actions by the U.S. government in assessing major AI systems.
The review process has been started in response to a statement by the Centre for AI Safety, which was signed by well-known technology professionals and academics and expressed worries about the uncontrolled hazards of AI and called for worldwide attention.
The global issue of tackling the dangers posed by artificial intelligence
Recent months have witnessed significant advancements in AI regulation, with key events unfolding globally:
- OpenAI CEO Urges Regulation: OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, testified before the US Senate, supporting the urgent need for AI regulation. Altman proposed an agency to issue licenses, safety regulations, and tests for AI models prior to public release.
- Microsoft’s Governance Blueprint: Microsoft released a blueprint advocating for responsible AI governance, including government-led safety frameworks and the establishment of an AI-focused federal agency.
- EU’s New AI Act: The European Union is nearing the completion of its ground-breaking legislation, the Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act), which seeks to establish a unified regulatory framework for AI while safeguarding fundamental rights. The Act addresses concerns, including the use of ChatGPT, and classifies high-risk AI applications based on potential harm.
- G-7 Leaders Establish ‘Hiroshima Process’: Acknowledging the swift progress of generative AI, G-7 leaders initiated the ‘Hiroshima Process’ to ensure AI development aligns with democratic values.
- Microsoft President’s Call for Generative AI Regulations: Microsoft President, Brad Smith, emphasised the importance of regulations to ensure the responsible use of generative AI, echoing the growing demand for AI regulation.
