Government launches artificial intelligence action plan

Newly appointed Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, Christian Porter. The federal government has unveiled its first action plan dedicated to establishing Australia as a global leader in developing and adopting responsible artificial intelligence (AI). Industry, Science and Technology Minister Christian Porter said the benefits of AI include protecting the environment, improving health outcomes, promoting smart cities, and boosting the economy. "AI could contribute more than $20 trillion to the global economy by 2030, and the AI Action Plan will help us leverage opportunities for AI to further strengthen the economy and improve the quality of life of all Australians, while ensuring that the development and adoption of AI is guided by appropriate safeguards, privacy and ethical considerations," he said. The government allocated $124.1 million in funding through the May budget to deliver some of the plan's key measures.