Australia has announced funding for Artificial Intelligence toolkits for the Pacific as part of Pacific Cyber Week and the Digital Transformation Summit hosted in Port Moresby.
Through the Southeast Asia and Pacific Cyber Program, Australia is providing almost PGK1.3 million (approx. AUD420,000) to Standards Australia to develop toolkits that will help Pacific island countries consider the safe and ethical adoption of artificial intelligence, in a practical way.
The toolkits will support governments, policy makers and practitioners to better understand and manage AI-related risks. They will provide practical guidance on responsible AI use, governance, standards, risk management and safeguards, tailored to Pacific contexts and priorities.
The initiative will support Pacific countries to make informed decisions, strengthen their own governance approaches and engage with emerging international standards. It reflects Australia’s commitment to ensuring Pacific voices, values, languages and development needs are represented as global AI rules and technologies evolve.
“Artificial intelligence can help improve public services and address the challenges of distance and limited resources. These toolkits will help Pacific governments pursue those opportunities on their own terms and with appropriate safeguards,” said Australia’s Special Envoy for the Pacific and Regional Affairs and High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, Mr Ewen McDonald.
“Responsible AI adoption requires practical and accessible guidance. The toolkits will help Pacific partners assess risks, strengthen governance and shape AI use in ways that reflect local needs, values and aspirations,” said Australia’s Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology Ms Jessica Hunter.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese outlined the government’s approach to attracting frontier AI investment. To support that vision, the Prime Minister announced the Government will develop a National Framework of Australian Standards for AI, providing clear, consistent and mandatory rules for large-scale AI infrastructure and development.
To drive a coordinated national approach, the Prime Minister announced the immediate establishment of an Office of AI within the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. It will lead the proposed Australian Standard for AI and coordinate AI policy across government, including economic, security, infrastructure, workforce and regulatory considerations.
Other initiatives highlighted in Port Moresby include a PNG Digital Public Infrastructure Centre of Excellence, proposed Pacific Digital and AI Principles, expanded eSafety support and a National eSafety Symposium. Australia will continue working with Pacific partners on secure infrastructure, digital skills, policy development, cyber resilience and stronger Pacific participation in international AI governance discussions.
ENDS
Australia’s Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology Ms Jessica Hunter delivering remarks at the opening of the Pacific Cyber Week.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100