Australians Demand Stronger AI Regulation Amid Trust Concerns

Australians are calling for stronger government regulation of AI, as revealed by a recent study conducted by Melbourne Business School. The study, which surveyed 48,340 people across 47 countries, found that while 50% of Australians use AI regularly, only 36% trust the technology.

The research highlights a significant public mandate for enhanced AI governance, with 77% of Australians believing government oversight is necessary. However, only 30% of respondents feel that current safeguards are adequate. Concerns include cybersecurity risks, misinformation, job loss, and bias in AI decision-making.

Professor Nicole Gillespie, the study lead, emphasized the need for policymakers to design and enforce appropriate AI regulations and to educate the public about these laws. The study suggests that if Australians were reassured about responsible AI governance, 81% would be more willing to trust the technology.