‘Transformative’: national AI plan set to be released
The long-awaited national plan for artificial intelligence will help Australians profit from technology while also protecting them from emerging risks.
Industry Minister Tim Ayres said the plan charts a path for an Australian economy that seizes the opportunities of AI, spreads its benefits and keeps Australians safe.
The publication of the roadmap, which has been in development since 2024, comes after the government said in August that artificial intelligence would become a national priority as it consults on changes to copyright law to protect creative industries from threats posed by the technology.
It recently pledged to establish an AI Safety Institute in 2026 to ensure formal monitoring and response to AI risks, supporting institutions and regulators.
On Tuesday, Mr Ayres said the national plan provided clear guidance for government, industry, researchers and communities to enable Australians to benefit from artificial intelligence.
He said it was part of the government’s Made in Australia Future agenda and would work to create high-value local jobs.
“The National AI Plan is about ensuring technology serves Australians, not the other way around,” he said in a statement.
“This plan focuses on seizing the economic opportunities of AI, sharing its benefits broadly and keeping Australians safe as the technology advances.”
The plan outlines steps the federal government is already taking to integrate AI into public services.
These include embedding AI into government operations through the secure GovAI platform, piloting generative AI in schools, and strengthening the digital and data skills of public service workers.
“The Australian government is working to expand the safe and responsible use of AI across all government agencies to help deliver consistent, high-quality services to people,” the plan says.
“The government aims to lead by example by increasing the efficiency of the public sector and ensuring better job satisfaction.”
It also describes efforts to accelerate investment in infrastructures that support AI, such as data centers.
“It is in our interest to ensure that AI development occurs locally where it is compatible with our national priorities and social and economic interests,” the plan says.
“It positions us as a leader in shaping ethical standards, safe technologies and competitive industries, ensuring AI primarily serves Australian communities and businesses.”
He says every Australian should be able to benefit from AI, but regional and disadvantaged voices need to be amplified to ensure communities aren’t left behind.
In November, the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering warned the country could miss out on a $150 billion economic boost if it did not invest in artificial intelligence, including independent modelling, regional centres, training and infrastructure.
