AI inquiry urges independent safety watchdogs inside companies

A parliamentary committee in Australia has urged the introduction of independent safety watchdogs within AI companies, along with enhanced access for security agencies and a review of copyright laws. The committee's final report, due in November, aims to bolster Australia's control over AI technology and mitigate associated risks following the Medicare website breach.

The government intends to introduce legislation on national AI standards by year-end, with the committee's recommendations serving as early guidance for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Key recommendations include mandatory independent safety checks for AI companies, prioritizing local computing power, and providing security agencies with early access to new AI models.

The inquiry also calls for a review of Australia's copyright laws to ensure they support Australian creators and creators' rights in the face of AI development. The committee emphasizes the need for robust safeguards to protect Australian data, including proper reporting mechanisms for incidents involving AI.