Australia to Adopt ‘Mandatory’ AI Safeguards

Artificial intelligence companies operating in Australia will be required to comply with new safety measures under regulations being developed by the government, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Tuesday.

The country plans to establish a dedicated AI safety regulator to oversee the industry and enforce safeguards as the technology continues to expand.

Albanese said the government intended to ensure that AI development served Australia’s interests rather than allowing the technology to shape society without adequate oversight.

He argued that ignoring the growth of artificial intelligence was not a practical option, making it necessary to put measures in place to guide its use and development.

“Our task is to make sure that we shape AI, rather than AI shape us,” he told reporters.

“You can’t turn it off and pretend it isn’t happening. But what we can do is make sure you shape it in Australia’s interest.”

The proposed safeguards will include compulsory reporting of AI-related risks and independent assessments of advanced AI models.

Albanese said Australia wanted to take an early lead in AI regulation and benefit from the technology’s potential, while ensuring that its development attracted public trust and acceptance.

“Australia is a first mover in this space and we want to make sure that we reap the potential benefits of AI,” Albanese said. 

“But we need to ensure that we get it right, and social licence is absolutely critical.”