Artificial Intelligence

Watson-Brown criticised the government for being slow to regulate AI, comparing the situation to the delayed response to social media risks. Watson-Brown argued that data centres are harming communities by raising power prices and polluting the environment, calling for a pause on new approvals until proper standards are enacted. Watson-Brown raised concerns about the impact of AI on jobs, particularly for young people, and the lack of transparency in how personal data is used.

Briskey defended the government's record, noting that Australia was the first to implement social media age restrictions and is now leading on AI standards. Briskey highlighted the role of the AI Safety Institute in testing advanced systems and the upcoming Joint Select Committee on Artificial Intelligence. Briskey emphasised the importance of maintaining public trust to ensure Australians can benefit from AI advancements while mitigating risks.

Wilkie acknowledged both the benefits and risks of AI, noting its potential in medical research and accessibility. Wilkie argued for a precautionary approach, citing warnings from scientists about existential threats and the need for international guardrails. Wilkie stressed the importance of robust regulatory frameworks grounded in safety by design, rather than allowing commercial incentives to drive an uncontrolled arms race.

Mascarenhas stated that the government is establishing necessary frameworks, including the Office for AI and mandatory standards. Mascarenhas highlighted the bipartisan Joint Select Committee on Artificial Intelligence as a key mechanism for addressing these issues. Mascarenhas pointed to the eSafety Commissioner's actions against harmful AI-generated content as an example of effective, rapid government response.

Farley argued that AI represents creative destruction and requires quantified risk assessment to enable proportional regulation. Farley noted that oversight should scale with the autonomy and stakes of AI systems, similar to the tiered approach in the EU AI Act. Farley warned that without measurable risk classification, regulation could either be too broad or insufficient for high-risk systems.

Burnell emphasised the economic opportunities of AI while cautioning about the impact on lower-skilled workers. Burnell outlined the government's three-pillar approach: capturing opportunity, spreading benefits, and keeping Australians safe. Burnell stressed that technological progress must be measured by whether it improves living standards and that the benefits must be shared across all communities.

Gee introduced the AI Kill Switch and Data Centre Control Bill 2026, arguing that AI poses a direct threat to humanity. Gee called for a mandatory kill switch for AI systems and a moratorium on new data centres to protect resources and communities. Gee criticised the lack of support for the bill and urged members to back measures that ensure human control over technology.

Abdo reiterated the government's commitment to progress and principles through the National AI Plan. Abdo highlighted recent actions, including the establishment of the AI Safety Institute and the Office of AI. Abdo stressed that data centre developments must deliver tangible benefits to local communities, including renewable energy and job creation, while adhering to federal expectations.