Australia is at a critical juncture with respect to the development of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, according to a new report called 'Responsible AI: Your questions answered.' The report the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) and the University of Adelaide’s Australian Institute for Machine Learning (AIML) suggests AI has the potential to significantly enhance and simplify our lives, but achieving this potential requires concerted effort on multiple fronts.

The report calls for the building of social license and public understanding around AI, as well as the initiation of new AI research and development activities. It provides guidance to aid the development of AI technologies in Australia, emphasising the need for a robust innovation ecosystem and effective governance.

ATSE CEO Kylie Walker is quoted in the report, stating, 'Our strong institutions, innovation ecosystem, effective governance and high rate of technology adoption position Australia to lead the world in the development of Responsible AI.' Walker also highlights the need for Australia to invest in AI research and foster coordination between academia and industry to cultivate a culture of research, innovation, and risk-taking.

Professor Simon Lucey, Director of the Australian Institute for Machine Learning (AIML), echoes Walker's sentiments, stating that Australia should aim to be at the forefront of Responsible AI creation. However, he notes that achieving this goal requires industry to prioritise AI-enabled innovation.

The report was published during AI Month and offers independent analysis to the national AI conversation, following the government’s efforts to outline appropriate safeguards for AI development and use. In March 2023, ATSE contributed to a Rapid Response Information Report on Generative AI for the National Science and Technology Council, outlining the risks and opportunities associated with AI.