The CSIRO has partnered with the National AI Centre (NAIC) and the Institute of Applied Technology Digital (IATD) to launch a free 'Introduction to AI' microskill course, in a new initiative aimed at boosting Australia's artificial intelligence (AI) literacy.

One million 'scholarships' are on offer to Australians looking to complete the course, which is designed to provide a non-technical introduction to the fundamentals of AI and is targeted at individuals at the beginning of their AI literacy journey. The offer is tragted at workers seeking to upskill, individuals starting their career in AI, and small to medium business owners.

The NAIC Director, Stela Solar, said the course is a perfect opportunity for business owners to build their understanding of AI, a technology estimated to be worth $4 trillion to the economy by the early 2030s.

“SMEs make up over 98 per cent of Australia's economy, and 'Introduction to AI’ is their opportunity to learn how they can use this revolutionary technology to enhance their operations, services, and market competitiveness,” Solar said.

Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA) CEO Luke Achterstraat highlighted the importance of small businesses in driving innovation in Australia and the potential benefits of the course in building confidence and competency in the AI landscape.

“Small businesses are a main source of innovation in Australia - they are entrepreneurs who try new ideas, test new products and usually back themselves with their own capital. This microskill course will help build confidence and competency for small businesses as they navigate the AI landscape,” he said.

The course, which requires no programming or computer science background for enrolment, is now available through IATD. It covers various aspects of AI, including common terminologies, challenges and risks, misconceptions, real-world applications, Australian AI case studies, and advice from industry experts.

Director of IATD Operations, Helen Fremlin, said: “No programming or computer science background is required for students to enrol, and the virtual nature of this course facilitates an easier path for Australians to upskill in AI, whenever and wherever they choose.”

Upon completion, students will receive a certificate of completion, further enhancing their professional credentials in the burgeoning field of AI.