Australia has released its first National AI Plan, setting out a whole-of-government blueprint to grow artificial intelligence across the economy while tightening safeguards around its use.
Unveiled by Industry and Innovation Minister Tim Ayres and Science Minister Andrew Charlton, the plan frames AI as central to the Albanese government’s “Future Made in Australia” agenda, aiming to turn the technology into a driver of secure, high-value jobs, stronger public services and national resilience.
Built around three goals — “capturing the opportunities, spreading the benefits, and keeping Australians safe” — the strategy outlines how Canberra plans to back local capability, attract global investment and strengthen regulation as AI systems become embedded in everyday life.
On the economic front, the government highlights Australia’s emerging AI strength: more than 1,500 AI companies, $700 million in private AI investment in 2024 and over $100 billion in planned data centre projects. The plan commits to “smart infrastructure” for AI, including national principles for data centres, support for high-performance computing and work to map and coordinate critical digital infrastructure.
Canberra has already committed more than $460 million to AI-related programs, including research grants, the Next Generation Graduates Program, the National AI Centre and the AI Adopt Program for small and medium enterprises. These are supplemented by a $1 billion National Reconstruction Fund allocation for critical technologies such as AI, and nearly $1 billion in AI-related spending claimed under the R&D Tax Incentive.
A major focus is on ensuring AI benefits are broadly shared. The plan promises targeted support for SMEs and regional communities, expanded digital inclusion programs for First Nations peoples and underserved groups, and new skills and training initiatives delivered through TAFEs, Jobs and Skills Councils and specialised AI micro-credentials. The government says every public servant will receive guidance to use generative AI safely, supported by a secure GovAI platform and Chief AI Officers in all agencies.
To manage risks, the plan leans on existing laws while flagging updates to privacy and sectoral regulation. A new AI Safety Institute will test advanced systems, monitor emerging harms and advise regulators on issues such as bias, disinformation, safety and AI-enabled crime. Australia will also continue to push for global AI norms through forums such as the Bletchley and Seoul processes, the International Network of AI Safety Institutes and regional digital partnerships, positioning itself as a “trusted, responsible” AI partner in the Indo-Pacific.
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