News & Insights

It’s official – AI has arrived, and it’s here to stay. Many Australians are beginning to consider the implications of this technology, including the implementation of AI policies within their business. Understandably, AI has become a hot topic on the world stage, with leading industry experts and Government bodies urging a call to action on generative AI.

One country that has already taken steps towards the safety of AI implementation is Canada, with the creation of the Artificial Intelligence and Data Act (AIDA).

Objectives of AIDA

Canada has modernized its Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) by introducing Bill C-27. Should this bill be enacted, it would change the name of the act to the Artificial Intelligence and Data Act (AIDA).

AIDA’s objectives are:

• ensure its approach is focused on the governed and controlled use of AI via introduction of principles.
• prevent harm to individuals, property, and economic loss, including the prevention of biased output.
• aim to minimise the risk involved in the use of high-impact AI systems.

Developers, providers, and managers of AI systems will be required to comply with AIDA.

Canada’s Code of Practice

Since Bill C-27 was introduced, the Code of Practice for generative AI systems (the Code) was created so that stakeholders may provide feedback in relation to its relevance in the current landscape.

Elements of this Code are:

• safety,
• fairness and equity,
• transparency,
• human oversight and monitoring,
• validity and robustness, and
• accountability

The code intends to:

• avoid harmful impacts,
• build trust in their systems, and
• transition smoothly to compliance with Canada’s forthcoming regulatory regime.

AI regulation in key industries

AI regulation will impact several key industries including employment, education, healthcare, intellectual property (IP), privacy, data protection and insurance. These industries may be impacted in a number of ways. Our team has put together a helpful document outlining the specific advantages, challenges, and solutions that businesses should consider.

Key takeaways for Australian businesses

While the industries outlined above will face more imminent concerns relating to AI, it’s possible that the technology will soon affect most, if not all, businesses. Therefore, Australian businesses looking to export or make available products containing elements of AI should keep abreast of the legislative changes within this area.

For more information on AI regulation, speak to our team of technology experts.

The information contained in this article is general in nature and cannot be relied on as legal advice nor does it create an engagement. Please contact one of our lawyers listed above for advice about your specific situation.