The Productivity Commission’s interim report on harnessing data and digital technology recommends that the government halt plans to implement “mandatory guardrails” for high-risk AI, and instead examine current laws for any gaps that need to be addressed.

“Like any new technology, AI presents risks. However, many of these can be mitigated by refining and adjusting the existing rules and frameworks,” noted Productivity Commissioner Stephen King.

“Our responsibility is to ensure this development benefits people rather than works against them, making individuals beneficiaries rather than victims of this change, particularly in the workforce,” he stated.

Both sides of parliament agree that restrictions are needed for AI, without being restrictive to the technology. 

But contention has risen over whether tech companies should be able to use data from Australian people, artists and media to train their AI models. 

“It’s not appropriate for big tech to steal and use it for their own ends without paying for it,” Opposition Leader Sussan Ley said.

“Why are these tech companies allowed to use the content you and I create for free and then profit from it? I don’t believe that’s fair,” commented Nationals Senator Matt Canavan.

AI will dominate discussions during an upcoming economic reform roundtable.