Key issues in AI policy, data and regulation
Policymakers around the world are considering how to best harness the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) for productivity while trying to anticipate and limit associated risks.
New research from the Productivity Commission finds that artificial intelligence could significantly boost Australia’s productivity if governments implement well-directed policies and regulations. In this set of three papers, the Commission places Australia’s AI opportunity in a global context, to consider how our governments can help maximise the potential benefits of evolving AI technology.
The papers describe a broad perspective on AI, but also provide a useful frame of reference for anyone in human services charged with governing, leading and developing sector and service policy settings for effectively managing AI.
Paper one outlines how Australia stands to benefit most from AI technology, and consequently, where governments should focus their policy efforts.
Paper two outlines a stepped, gradual approach to regulation that focuses on addressing harms as they emerge. The paper notes that AI will likely highlight gaps in current laws and regulations that we will need to address. The research finds the challenges presented by AI are particularly acute in the case of data.
Paper three considers how AI raises the stakes for data policy. Advances in AI highlight that data is an increasingly valuable resource that is underutilised in Australia. Key challenges for governments will be to improve protections and public confidence in data sharing and to establish clear and consistent arrangements for training AI models.
While we might not all require this broad level of detail on the effects of AI on business, the information points out handy touchpoints for core AI considerations for anyone setting AI-related policy in their health or human service. Particularly as related to data management.
All accessed 26/3/24:
Productivity Commission. Making the most of the AI opportunity: AI uptake, productivity, and the role of government. Research Paper Series, Canberra, 2024. https://www.pc.gov.au/research/completed/making-the-most-of-the-ai-opportunity