Why SA is holding a royal commission into AI
South Australia pioneered the global push to restrict children's access to social media. Could the state's royal commission into AI also lead to national policy?
South Australia's government is set to hold a royal commission into artificial intelligence, marking the first such inquiry of its kind in the country. Premier Peter Malinauskas announced the move, emphasizing both the potential benefits and risks of AI. He stressed the need to ensure AI is used in a way that puts people first, warning that without careful consideration, AI could pose significant risks to society, the economy, and public services.
The inquiry aims to shape future approaches to AI technology, examine its impacts on various sectors, and explore potential restrictions on its use. It will not, however, consider the infrastructure behind AI, such as data centers. Malinauskas met with AI leaders from OpenAI, Anthropic, and Apple during a recent trip to the United States, signing a memorandum of understanding with OpenAI.
He expects the inquiry to cost around $3 million, deeming it a small price to pay compared to the potential societal risks. Experts, including UNSW AI Institute chief scientist Toby Walsh and University of Sydney's Dr. Rebecca Johnson, welcomed the initiative, emphasizing that AI is advancing rapidly and that delays in addressing its challenges could lead to significant societal disruptions.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
