The federal government says its planned whole-of-government framework for automated decision-making will include safeguards aimed at ensuring transparency, human oversight and review rights.

Attorney-General Michelle Rowland gave the assurance in response to independent MP Kate Chaney, who asked when the government would legislate a framework covering automated decision-making.

Chaney pointed to the three years since the Robodebt royal commission and its recommendation for legislated guardrails around automation in government.

Rowland said the government is working on a whole-of-government framework for automated decision-making and that its design and operation are being informed by extensive consultation.

“The framework will include robust safeguards that ensure transparency, human oversight and review rights,” Rowland said.

She said the government was “working at pace” and that its approach was focused on enabling Australians to adopt new technologies responsibly, while delivering government services more efficiently and preventing the systemic failures identified by the Robodebt royal commission.

The government has not announced a final legislative framework in the update. Rowland’s comments indicate that the work remains focused on developing the broader whole-of-government approach and its safeguards.

Source: The Guardian