The Business Council of Australia has called for a clear national approach to artificial intelligence that builds public trust, supports investment and ensures Australia reaps more of the economic rewards.
In its submission to the Joint Select Committee on Artificial Intelligence, the BCA outlined the practical benefits already being delivered by AI across the economy – from detecting fraud and improving mine safety to supporting better healthcare and essential services.
Business Council Chief Executive Bran Black said Australia had an opportunity to use AI to lift productivity and living standards, and that getting the policy settings right would be critical.
“AI has the potential to lift productivity and deliver benefits across the entire economy by lifting living standards for Australians,” Mr Black said.
“But businesses need politicians to give certainty. Businesses need to know that they can invest in AI with confidence and that governments won’t change the goal posts.”
“Australia has a stark choice: without clear policy direction we can’t set the terms on which we harness economic opportunities.”
Mr Black said Australians rightly deserve to know that AI is being used responsibly, their information is protected and workers are involved in how it is introduced into their workplaces.
“That requires sensible processes that protect Australians while giving workers and businesses the confidence to use AI in ways that make workplaces safer, more productive and better for everyone.”
“It also means building capability here in Australia, because maintaining control over this technology is in our national interest, and underpins our national and economic security,” Mr Black said.
The BCA’s submission outlines a reform agenda to support responsible AI adoption, including:
- Keeping AI regulation clear, proportionate, nationally consistent and responsive to genuine gaps in existing frameworks;
- Providing workable copyright rules;
- Supporting responsible adoption of AI in workplaces;
- Building Australian AI skills, research and commercial capability;
- Supporting the infrastructure needed for AI investment; and
- Ensuring Australia maintains sufficient control over technology used in critical national functions.