In a significant development for the future of artificial intelligence (AI) in Australia, the Federal Government, in partnership with the South Australian Government and the University of Adelaide, has unveiled a $20 million investment to establish the Responsible AI Research Centre (RAIR) in Adelaide. The announcement was made today by Minister for Industry and Science, Susan Close, who emphasised the centre’s role in navigating the complexities and increasing applications of AI in various sectors.

The RAIR is set to focus on several critical areas of AI development, including the management of misinformation, interaction between AI systems and the physical world, fostering diversity in AI responses, and enabling AI systems to elucidate their decision-making processes. Close remarked that the centre would not only address fears surrounding AI technology but would also reinforce South Australia's position as a leader in AI research.

Located at Lot Fourteen in Adelaide, the RAIR Centre will house experts from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation’s (CSIRO) Data61—its digital and data science division—and the Australian Institute for Machine Learning (AIML) from the University of Adelaide. The collaboration is anticipated to drive advancements in AI that could have far-reaching implications both nationally and internationally.

In discussing the economic potential of AI, Ed Husic, Minister for Industry and Science, stated, “AI and automation could generate between $170-$600 billion each year towards Australia’s GDP by 2030.” Husic highlighted the government’s initiatives, such as revitalising the National AI Centre and implementing mandatory safety guidelines for the responsible use of AI, signifying a proactive governmental approach to AI development.

Simon Lucey, the Interim Director of RAIR and Director of AIML, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative’s launch, stating, “We are excited to launch this valuable new initiative and to continue AIML’s tradition of being at the forefront of AI research impact. AI is already having a significant impact on the lives of Australians. There are, however, sectors that have not previously benefited from AI due to concerns about safety and reliability. Safeguards alone are not enough; we also need innovation.”

Lucey further added that RAIR will leverage the collective expertise of AIML, CSIRO's Data61, and the Government of South Australia to innovate safe and reliable AI solutions that can positively influence the daily lives of Australians. He concluded by asserting that RAIR will position Australia as a world leader in responsible AI research, opening new investment avenues and economic opportunities.

The centre is expected to commence operations in early 2025, marking Australia’s commitment to becoming a front-runner in the development of responsible AI. This venture not only aims to address immediate concerns associated with AI technologies but also positions Australia as a central figure in the global discourse on ethical AI usage.

The $20 million funding for RAIR includes a contribution of $5 million from the South Australian Government, bolstering the previously committed $6 million intended to enhance AIML's capacity to assist businesses in leveraging AI for productivity improvements and the creation of new AI-enabled products and services.

Source: Noah Wire Services