Australia has released a National Framework for the Assurance of Artificial Intelligence in Government, jointly agreed by federal, state, and territory governments in June 2024. The framework is designed to support safe, responsible, and consistent use of AI across public sector agencies. It sets out key “cornerstones” and practical assurance methods that help government bodies apply the country’s AI Ethics Principles in real-world decision-making systems. These cornerstones act as guiding mechanisms to ensure AI tools used in government are transparent, accountable, fair, and properly governed throughout their lifecycle. The framework also provides detailed practices for assessing risks, testing systems, and maintaining oversight when AI is used in public services. It represents a coordinated national effort to standardise how AI is evaluated and deployed within government operations, ensuring that innovation does not outpace safeguards. Officials say the approach is intended to build public trust while enabling AI to improve efficiency, service delivery, and policy outcomes across Australia’s public sector.
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