Albanese government warned it’s ‘sleepwalking into another robodebt scenario’ over use of algorithms and AI
Summary
The Centre for Public Integrity says Australia lacks strong rules and transparency for government use of automated decisions and artificial intelligence. Its report calls for audits, a public register and independent oversight, citing concerns about an aged-care assessment tool that has under-assessed people’s needs.Key Facts
- The Centre for Public Integrity released a report called “Computer Says No” on government use of automated decision-making tools.
- The report makes eight recommendations, including mandatory audits and a public register of government use of automated decisions.
- The centre also called for an independent body with powers to monitor, audit and investigate government use of these tools.
- An algorithm used in the government’s Integrated Assessment Tool helps determine older Australians’ eligibility for home support.
- The article says the tool has routinely under-assessed people’s needs and entitlements, and assessors have been barred from overriding incorrect algorithmic decisions.
- The attorney general’s department has been developing a framework, and public consultation ended in January 2025.
- Attorney General Michelle Rowland said the framework would include transparency obligations and human oversight.
- Independent MP Kate Chaney introduced a bill in September to create a mandatory legal framework for government use of automated decisions.
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