National strategy on new and emerging technologies

The report emphasises the need for Australia’s national strategy to be firm on innovation while upholding human rights. It recommends using the Digital Australia Strategy to set the national strategy for various emerging technologies. The report encourages the strategy to contain practical measures focused on regulation, education, training, capacity building, and funding. It also outlines specific recommendations for how to promote responsible innovation to ensure human rights safeguards are securely in place.

Using artificial intelligence (AI) to make decisions

Part B of the report addresses AI-informed decision making. As AI disrupts our economic, social, and governmental systems, there is a growing public concern regarding its possible malicious uses. The report recommends implementing a framework for regulation, including a review of relevant Australian data protection and privacy laws. Additionally, it urges businesses to consider forming a dedicated AI ethics committee to oversee the implementation of ethical-aligned AI-informed decision-making. Further recommendations include the need for transparency, data protection, human oversight, and accountability in the use of AI.

Accessibility of digital communication technologies

Accessibility for people with disabilities was considered throughout the report, with recommendations offered to ensure goods, facilities, and services relying on Digital Communication Technologies are designed and developed accessibly. The Commission suggests professional accreditation bodies for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) should introduce mandatory training on human rights by design as part of their continuing professional development. The Standards Australia should also work with industry and the community to develop a Standard or Technical Specification to ensure the provision of consistent accessible information for Digital Communication Technologies. The document also recommends an expert team that leads the national development and delivery of education, training, accreditation, and capacity building to have accessibility as a fundamental component.