Question Time AU

General Debate

Artificial Intelligence

House of Representatives · Monday 27 October 2025

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

The House debated a motion acknowledging the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on Australia. The mover highlighted government investments in skills training and safety measures, while other speakers raised concerns about cybersecurity risks, energy demands, and the need for stronger regulatory frameworks. Critics argued that current funding was insufficient and that the government was lagging in protecting citizens from AI-related harms. The debate concluded with calls for a comprehensive national strategy that balances innovation with robust safeguards for workers and communities.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Jo Briskey (Maribyrnong) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

Briskey moved the motion to acknowledge the significant changes AI brings and to welcome government commitments to ensure safe and beneficial deployment. Briskey argued that AI could add over $100 billion annually to the economy and generate tens of thousands of jobs by 2030, provided gains are shared fairly. Briskey highlighted specific investments, including $47 million for the Next Generation Graduate program, one million free TAFE scholarships, and $17 million for AI Adopt Centres. Briskey emphasised the importance of worker consultation through unions and noted recent copyright protections for creative industries. Briskey concluded that technology should strengthen human connection rather than replace it, ensuring fairness for small businesses and workers.

Opposition response

Tom Venning (Grey) (Liberal Party) Liberal

Venning argued that the government was failing to manage the transition to AI effectively, leaving security, the economy, and children at risk. Venning cited the Annual cyber threat report 2024-2025, noting a 16 per cent increase in calls to the Australian Cyber Security Hotline and an 83 per cent rise in notifications of malicious cyber activity. Venning contended that poor foundational literacy and numeracy skills, evidenced by NAPLAN results, were leaving students unprepared for an AI-driven economy. Venning also warned that the energy demands of AI data centres would strain the government's renewable energy targets and hinder competitiveness. Venning called for a serious strategic plan focused on cybersecurity and educational excellence.