Lawmakers must balance AI risks and opportunities, MP says
The Federal Government’s role is to protect the Australian public from the dangers of AI, without restricting AI’s potential to deliver positive and profound improvements in living standards, according to the Assistant Minister to the Attorney General.
In a speech last week in Fremantle at the Australian Lawyers Alliance 2024 national conference, Patrick Gorman MP – who is deputy minister to the prime minister, deputy minister to the attorney general and deputy minister for the public service – said that artificial Intelligence (AI) “is no longer the domain of science fiction”.
“It’s there, and it’s already integrated into our daily lives,” he said.
“Australians are already using AI in the workplace. Teachers are now providing students with personalized AI chatbots to help provide additional tutoring to students in need of support. AI helps doctors analyze large data sets and gather medical insights that were previously not possible. And of course, AI is also impacting the legal industry.
“Recent surveys suggest that a majority of lawyers are already using AI in their work. They are also optimistic about the potential of AI to bring significant innovation to the sector. AI tools are being developed to help lawyers with document review, legal research and more.
To this end – and given the pace of change – the government’s regulatory approach must also adapt to this development.
It’s the role of lawmakers, Gorman said, “to balance risks and opportunities.” Protecting the Australian public from the dangers of AI, without restricting AI’s potential to deliver positive and profound improvements to living standards.”
“Australians are looking for leadership on how best to protect themselves from potential dangers. When we carry out law reform, we must keep in mind the rights and needs of those who are most vulnerable. To ensure that those who are most disadvantaged are not further disadvantaged,” he said.
“Some legislation is developed for specific technologies, such as genetic technologies or nuclear technologies. Other laws are designed to be technology neutral. The Australian Government continually works to ensure that our robust system of existing legislative frameworks are fit for purpose. Capable of responding to harms, including those caused by AI.
Australians know, Gorman continued, that regulating AI is a difficult issue.
“They recognize the potential dangers and benefits and the importance of doing things right. When the community has expectations, law reform must meet and respect those expectations.
“Australian laws are, ultimately, the mirror held up to our society. Our laws must reflect the expectations and beliefs of all the diverse individuals who make up this country,” he said.
The remarks follow a report from Cyber Daily’s sister brand, Lawyers Weekly. last monthnoting that Australia would do well to maintain a “cautious and cautious” approach to regulating artificial intelligence, legal experts say – an approach that needs to be replicated in dealing with clients.
This story was originally published by Cyber Daily’s sister brand, Lawyers Weekly.
