The Australian government is taking significant strides in modernising its approach to digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI). The Defence Digital Engineering Strategy and the AI policy from the Digital Transformation Agency are pivotal initiatives that outline how Defence and the government will leverage AI, digital technologies, and models in the future. While both documents are at a high level of direction, it is important to be aware of government’s intended strategies and policies when developing tender documentation to demonstrate an understanding of the customer.

Policy for the responsible use of AI in government

Issued by the Digital Transformation Agency, the AI policy aims to ensure that the Australian Public Service (APS) uses AI safely, confidently, and responsibly. It emphasizes strengthening public trust through governance, risk assurance, and enhanced transparency, while also promoting a forward-learning approach to adapt to technological and policy changes.

The requirements of the AI policy include:

• Accountable Officials: Agencies must designate officials responsible for implementing this policy within 90 days of it taking effect.
• Transparency statement: Agencies must publish and regularly update an AI transparency statement.

The policy’s impact on procurement involves:

• Training: Government staff involved in procurement will need additional training in AI
• Transparency: Agencies must publicly disclose their AI adoption and use, including in procurement

Compliance: Suppliers will need to ensure their AI solutions comply with the government’s ethical and responsible AI guidelines.

Next steps for the government include designating accountable officials within 90 days and publishing AI transparency statements within six months.

Defence Digital Engineering Strategy 2024

This strategy aims to modernise Defence’s approach to designing, developing, and sustaining capabilities through digital engineering, enhancing innovation. Defence has outlined five goals:

1. Transforming Culture and Workforce
2. Integrating Digital Models
3. Managing Authoritative Data
4. Enabling Technological Innovation
5. Creating a Collaborative Digital Environment

The strategy’s impact on procurement includes encouraging the reuse of data to achieve time and cost efficiencies and leveraging digital artifacts to support rapid procurement. The Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group will lead the implementation, working with stakeholders to develop specific plans and a Defence-wide roadmap.

These initiatives collectively represent a comprehensive effort to position Australia at the forefront of digital and AI advancements, ensuring a secure, efficient, and innovative future for both government operations and national defence.