Understand the AI Policy

Find out what the Australian Government requires for the safe and responsible use of AI, and what your agency needs to do to meet those requirements. The policy gives you a framework to adopt AI faster while maintaining public trust and meeting community expectations.
 

From policy to practice across the APS

The Policy for the responsible use of AI in government is part of the APS AI Plan, the APS-wide approach to using AI safely, responsibly and effectively. Together, they help agencies build capability, adopt AI and manage the risks, so government can improve how it delivers services to Australians.

Key policy requirements

The Policy for the responsible use of AI in government mandates requirements at both the agency and AI use-case level to support the safe, responsible and sustainable adoption of AI. It is supported by two standards that prescribe specific accountability and transparency requirements.

The resources below provide guidance on key elements of the policy. They are not a complete list of requirements. Agencies should refer to the policy and its supporting standards to understand all requirements that apply.

Establish accountability
Understand who is responsible for AI within your agency and the governance arrangements that need to be in place.
Be transparent about your use of AI
Understand your agency's requirements to publish and maintain an AI transparency statement explaining its approach to AI adoption and use.
Prepare your workforce
Understand the expectations for ensuring staff have appropriate knowledge and training to use AI safely and responsibly.
Assess AI use and risk
Understand how potential AI use cases should be considered, including their purpose, benefits, risks and impacts.

Using public generative AI tools

Find out how your agency can manage the use of publicly available generative AI tools, such as chatbots and image generators. This is practical guidance for applying the policy in this context.

Where do I go next?

Once you understand the policy and your agency's responsibilities, continue through the AI adoption lifecycle.

Meet accountability and transparency requirements
Take action on your agency's ongoing governance, accountability and transparency obligations.
Assess AI use cases
Identify opportunities and assess their value, impact, risk and suitability.
Implement AI safely
Access technical standards and implementation guidance.
Build capability
Develop the technical, operational and governance skills needed to design, manage and oversee AI effectively.

Connect with the digital community

Share, build or learn digital experience and skills with training and events, and collaborate with peers across government.

Join the Digital Profession