The Australian Government is seeking industry help following the launch of a $17 million Artificial Intelligence Adopt Program.
The new program will establish up to five AI Adopt Centres across the country to support Australian businesses integrating AI into their work systems.
The Government is seeking applications from Australian businesses, industry partners and research institutions to deliver training and upskilling packages as part of the program. Grants of between $3 million and $5 million over four years will be available for up to 50% of eligible project expenditure.
Each AI Adopt Centre will target business in key priority areas of the National Reconstruction Fund. The network of industry specific centres will be designed to: showcase innovative capabilities that AI can unlock; provide guidance on how to adopt AI responsibly and efficiently and, offer specialist training to help develop specific skills to effectively manage AI.
Training to eligible businesses will be free.
Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic said the network of centres would give businesses clear and direct advice on how to integrate AI into their work systems.
“Harnessing the power of AI will enhance productivity, helping to crack one of the biggest challenges facing Australia,” he said.
“AI has enormous potential to support Australian businesses to gain a competitive edge in global markets.”
Mr Husic said the AI Adopt Centres would be a “front door” for AI use in Australia.
The centres will complement the National Artificial Intelligence Centre and participate in the Responsible AI Network.
The program is expected to create further opportunity for growth in the AI technology market, broadly increasing international demand for Australian AI capabilities and supporting the Government’s target of 1.2 million tech-related jobs by 2030.
It also aims to positively impact participation of underrepresented cohorts in technology, including women, First Nations Australians, and those with disability.
Applications for the Artificial Intelligence Adopt Program close January 29, 2024.
