Increased interest in artificial intelligence (AI) and its benefits have prompted the development of a discussion paper to consider how the technology can impact Australia’s future.

Developing Standards for Artificial Intelligence: Hearing Australia’s Voice has been developed to harness the responsible use of AI, recognizing the work of stakeholders including CSIRO Data 61, in shaping how ethics can impact AI into the future.

Standards Australia Acting CEO Adrian O’Connell said Australians are fast adopters of new technologies, particularly in the home environment.

“Google Home, Alexa and Siri, for example, have become part of many people’s everyday lives,” O’Connell said. “But the applications of AI are broader, ranging from the home, to the healthcare clinic and the factory floor, and present real opportunities for Australians in terms of our standard of living.

“For this reason, standards in this space can help guide the rapid development of AI to meet our changing expectations as a community, in a way that brings industry, community and governments together.”

The discussion paper is a key step in ensuring Australian stakeholders are involved in fundamental areas of the AI roll-out happening at a global level, such as governance and AI-based solutions.

“The potential far reaching impact of AI is the reason for such a comprehensive consultation process, and the benefits posed by AI make this a project Standards Australia is proud to be leading,” O’Connell said.

The discussion paper is part of a national consultation taking place in major capital cities in coming weeks. Click here for more information about the discussion paper.