Australia gets a ‘driver’s manual’ for safe and responsible use of AI

Guidance for AI Adoption outlines six practices to help organisations plan, manage and use AI to build trust and provide benefits, and it is intended to help those just starting out on adopting AI into business plans, and those already building complex systems.

The guide includes practical tools and templates, including handy information for charities that might not know where to start, such as an AI policy template and an AI register template.

The guide is based on national and international ethics principles, and the NAIC says that by following the guidelines, organisations can build trust with stakeholders, get the benefits of AI while managing the risks, build public confidence in adopting AI, and set a roadmap for navigating a complex government landscape.

There are two versions of the guidance: a “Foundations” version for those just starting out in adopting and incorporating AI, and an “Implementation practices” version, for governance professionals and technical experts.

“Foundations” looks at using AI in low-risk ways, and it is aimed at professionals who are new to AI or looking for general guidance on best practice when using AI in business, not-for-profit and for-purpose contexts.

The executive director of NAIC, Lee Hickin, told the Community Advocate that creating the guidelines was an important part of the centre’s role in helping Australian industry to adopt AI safely and responsibly.

“We have heard from industry that they need more than principles. They need practical tools that unlock the economic benefit of AI,” he said. “This guidance delivers exactly that – clear practices, templates and pathways to help organisations embed responsible AI into their operations.”

Before taking up his role as NAIC leader, Hickin was chief technology officer for Microsoft ANZ and then led Microsoft’s global Responsible AI team for the Asia region. He also worked independently in the AI assurance field for several international governments. His background left him well equipped to lead the NAIC’s mission of building “consistent and appropriate responsible safety mechanisms to support AI, balanced with the need to empower Australians with confidence and trust in the positive and transformative potential of AI.”

Hickin said good AI governance was essential. “Responsible AI starts with strong governance. This guidance gives organisations the structure they need to manage AI risks, build trust and ensure their use of AI aligns with community expectations and business goals,” he explained.

“The guidance is designed to support both new adopters, often smaller organisations taking their first steps with AI, and those further along in their adoption journey. It provides foundational practices to help newcomers build capability and confidence, while offering more advanced implementation strategies for experienced users to strengthen governance, manage risk and align with best practice,” he said.

The six practices that form the backbone of the guidance have been streamlined since the previous Voluntary AI Safety Standard (VAISS) was published, and they incorporate feedback received from industry consultations. “The inclusion of practical templates, such as an AI risk register and AI policy, makes it easier for organisations to take action, not just understand the theory,” Hickin said.

“We’re aiming to reach decision-makers, risk managers, and technical leads across sectors who are responsible for deploying AI safely. The guidance is a step toward building national consistency and confidence in AI adoption.”

More information

Guidance for AI Adoption

Community Directors tools and help sheets on AI