Albanese government creates taskforce on AI use by public service

The news: The federal government has announced it is setting up an AI taskforce that will create guardrails for the use of artificial intelligence by government agencies.

The numbers: The taskforce — made up of staff from government departments including Finance, Health and Aged Care, Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Home Affairs and the ATO — will operate for up to six months. It follows the Albanese government's announcement in the May budget of $101 million in investment in the development of Australia's quantum and AI industries.

The context: Led by the Digital Transformation Agency and the Department of Industry, Science and Resources, the taskforce will help ensure "the public service takes advantage of technology that could revolutionise the way we live and work", Finance Minister Katy Gallagher said in a statement. The government recently consulted AI experts, tech companies and other groups on plans for regulations on the use of artificial intelligence, including mitigating potential risks and supporting responsible and safe practices.