Why SA is holding a royal commission into AI

South Australia is set to become the first jurisdiction in Australia to hold a royal commission into artificial intelligence, a move Premier Peter Malinauskas described as a critical juncture for humanity.

Malinauskas announced the inquiry, emphasizing that while AI presents exciting opportunities, it also poses significant risks to societal operations and the future of work if not carefully managed. "We are at a really important fork in the road," he stated, highlighting the need for proactive governance.

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We are at a really important fork in the road.

The premier stressed the importance of setting the agenda for AI's development, rather than allowing it to evolve unregulated. "We can choose to set the guard rails and the policy frameworks to ensure that we use AI in a way that puts people first," he said.

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We can choose to set the guard rails and the policy frameworks to ensure that we use AI in a way that puts people first.

His decision follows a recent trip to the United States, where he met with leaders from AI giants like OpenAI and Apple. During the visit, he signed a memorandum of understanding with OpenAI to explore opportunities for developing AI skills, research, innovation, and investment in South Australia. He also had discussions with Apple's CEO about AI's potential economic and societal implications.

The royal commission will investigate AI's broad impacts, including its effects on education, skills, employment, public services like healthcare, and infrastructure. It aims to shape future approaches to AI technology, potentially leading to restrictions on its use and ensuring that human well-being remains central to its advancement and deployment.

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Only governments, only parliaments have the tools and the resources to ensure that people are at the centre of the advancement and the rollout of AI-related technologies and industries.