Current position
Australia does not currently have a standalone, comprehensive law specifically regulating artificial intelligence.
Instead, AI governance is addressed through a combination of existing legal frameworks, sector-specific regulation, and government policy initiatives.
For example, the handling of personal information in AI systems is governed by the Privacy Act 1988, which establishes obligations relating to the collection, use, and disclosure of personal data.
Consumer protection concerns arising from AI-enabled products or services may fall under the Australian Consumer Law, which prohibits misleading or deceptive conduct and unfair business practices.
In addition, anti-discrimination risks associated with automated decision-making may be addressed under statutes such as the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 and the Sex Discrimination Act 1984.
Beyond these existing legal frameworks, the Australian government has also issued policy guidance, including the Australia's AI Ethics Principles and the Safe and Responsible AI in Australia Discussion Paper, which outline voluntary principles and potential regulatory approaches for the responsible development and deployment of AI systems.
Together, these legal and policy instruments form Australia's current approach to AI governance.