Australia warned of new robodebt crisis over AI use

Thinktank warns of robodebt repeat

The Centre for Public Integrity says the federal government is sleepwalking into another robodebt scandal through lack of transparency around algorithms and artificial intelligence in decisions.

“"sleepwalking its way into another robodebt" scandal”

Computer Says No report launched

Dr Catherine Williams of the Centre for Public Integrity launched the Computer Says No report on Thursday examining automated decision-making tools used by government.

Aged care algorithm under-assesses

The integrated assessment tool used to assess home support for older Australians has been found routinely under-assessing needs, with assessors banned from overriding algorithmic decisions.

Eight reforms demanded

The report calls for mandatory audit and public register of all automated decision-making use, plus an independent oversight body with powers to monitor, audit and investigate government.

Attorney general developing framework

Michelle Rowland's department has been developing an automated decision-making framework with public consultation ending in January 2025. She did not say when a draft would be complete.

Ombudsman found transparency ignored

A commonwealth ombudsman report published in October found transparency recommendations from the robodebt royal commission had been ignored by government in developing the aged care algorithm tool.

Independent MP pushes for legislation

Kate Chaney introduced a private member's bill in September to establish the first legislated mandatory framework for government automated decision-making, saying the consultation process finished almost two years ago.

“"I think it's really important that we keep the pressure up so that it doesn't get dropped because it's too hard."”