Our members, Australia’s 39 comprehensive universities, are increasingly adopting AI tools in research and teaching as well as deepening their knowledge of the possibilities and risks arising from the uptake of AI technologies. They are uniquely placed to explore the opportunities of AI, identify what best practice for the sector may look like and subsequently provide guidance on how to safely include AI tools in research and teaching practices.
To support this effort, UA has established two working groups focusing on AI in teaching and AI in research, bringing together senior leaders and experts in the sector to lead and advise on constructive and ethical use of AI. AI is rapidly growing, and Australia’s universities are committed to ensuring that their response evolve accordingly.
UA has considered the inquiry’s terms of reference and will make the following recommendations and comments on how Australia’s universities can support opportunities and impacts for Australia arising out of the uptake of AI technologies:
- Universities should retain autonomy to provide guidance on AI use (section 1) and training to staff and students (section 2),
- Australia is currently investing less in AI research capabilities, putting us at risk of falling behind our peers (section 3),
- Global responses to AI regulation can inform the government’s approach (section 4),
- Universities are key to developing an AI literate workforce (section 5), and
- Indigenous people must be at the centre of AI adoption conversations (section 6).
