Made in Australia: Our AI opportunity

Artificial intelligence (AI) is radically reshaping work, education and security in Australia, and is officially recognised as a critical technology in government policy. How we harness it will impact the nation’s economic prosperity, national security and continuing innovation.

The global race to build AI capabilities is accelerating, and it is incumbent on us to harness our comparative advantages and secure control of our data and digital systems. Without timely and comprehensive public and private investments in sovereign AI capability, Australia runs the risk of becoming dependent on foreign technology providers with their own commercial and national interests.

Australia already has the ingredients to develop sovereign AI capability, and is ready to leverage these, with appropriate government leadership and investment. ATSE proposes a mission-based approach, with AI factories located across Australia: the jewel in the AI crown around which talent and partnerships will develop. This statement outlines how targeted investment in a strong national AI capability can position Australia as a global leader in safe, sustainable, ethical and high-impact sovereign AI. It shows how these investments will give us the autonomy we want as a nation whilst enhancing productivity and prepare the nation for future transitions in manufacturing and knowledge work, unlocking value across the entire economy.

This statement builds on ATSE’s 2022 vision statement, Strategic Investment in Australia’s Artificial Intelligence Capacity.