With much productivity talk from the state, and several relevant workplace agreements expiring in the next year, the union’s proactive push aims to foster a bottom-up approach to AI’s use – not just limits.

What they said

“Our members are already trialling these tools to manage their workloads, and it’s clear: AI can help, but only if it’s implemented with support, transparency and worker control,” Scott said in a statement – itself written with help from one AI tool.

“If deployed ethically, AI can restore work-life balance by taking pressure off frontline staff and helping them do more in less time.

“But those gains won’t happen without proper training, consultation, and safeguards written into workplace agreements.

Loading

“We’re ready to embrace AI – when it’s transparent, ethical and designed to empower … It’s about fairness, voice, and giving workers the tools to reclaim balance in their lives.”

Another perspective

Both the Labor and LNP sides of politics were largely dismissive when asked about plans to maximise the benefits of AI use for government during before last year’s election.

At the time, UNSW AI Institute chief scientist Toby Walsh said governments – through service delivery and bureaucratic organisation – had more to gain than any other section of the economy.

Loading

Walsh said while NSW had led work among the states, Australia as a whole was well behind countries such as the UK, Canada, South Korea and India.

What you need to know

The proactive approach from the union to incorporate AI strategies in its upcoming bargaining was backed by more than 250 public sector delegates at last month’s convention.

Key principles the union will call for include “real” consultation with workers before any AI tools are deployed by departments and strong ethical, privacy and environmental safeguards.

It will also call for universal access to such tools with training and recognition, and clear protections to ensure the tools do not replace workers.

Get alerts on significant breaking news as happens. Sign up for our Breaking News Alert.