AI Jobs, Skills and Connectivity for Tasmania

TasICT says the Federal Government’s proposed rules on Artificial Intelligence have the potential to grow a more productive Tasmanian economy if the settings are right.

TasICT has cautiously welcomed Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s proposed standards released yesterday – and says it’s now up to the Tasmanian Government to strongly advocate for a human-centred approach to AI that grows business and supports employee training.

TasICT CEO Russell Kelly said having national standards should ensure Tasmania gets the focus and support needed to truly participate in the AI revolution.

“If used wisely, AI has the potential to make Tasmanian workers more productive, improve business viability and increase Tasmanians’ confidence with using technology.”

The Federal Government’s announcement seeks to set clear standards about AI adoption, where AI data centres can be built, obligations on electricity and water use, and guarantees on community benefits.

“The question is no longer whether AI infrastructure will be built – but how to maximise the advantages for Tasmania when it is built.

“For Tasmania, success in the AI era means stronger telecommunications resilience, better connectivity, local jobs, pathways into skilled digital careers and a productivity increase for business.

“Therefore, TasICT is calling for Federal Government investment in workforce development and business adoption programs to maximise the benefits from AI.”

TasICT urged the Tasmanian Government to argue Tasmania’s case as an island at the proposed National Cabinet on AI standards next month.

“If we get the settings right, AI infrastructure can support a stronger digital economy – and that is something the Federal Government should recognise and ensure national guidelines distribute the benefits fairly.”