Australian government announces free AI training course for SMEs

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Image credit: peshkova/stock.adobe.com

The National AI Centre, in partnership with the Institute of Applied Technology Digital, is delivering access to a new free course in artificial intelligence to Australian businesses. 

Delivered through TAFE NSW, the “Introduction to Artificial Intelligence” course will offer 1 million scholars access to fundamental skills learning and train them on adopting technology in their business operations. 

The course will cover challenges and risks, common misconceptions, real-world applications, and advice from industry experts on kickstarting a career in AI. 

The AI 101 free course is part of the Australian government’s efforts to reach its AI goals as outlined in its interim response to the Safe and Responsible AI in Australia consultation. 

The course will also help deliver on the government’s target to reach 1.2 million tech-related jobs by 2030. 

Aside from the training course, the Australian government has kickstarted other efforts to help businesses develop and use safe and responsible AI. These include the recently established Temporary Expert Advisory Group and the development of an AI safety standard. 

“A lot of business owners and workers have heard of AI, but they’re not sure about how it applies to them,” said Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic. 

“This is practical and pragmatic support for small businesses, who don’t have the same access to tech know-how as big business, but have just as big a need to improve productivity,” Husic added.

“The Albanese Labor Government understands the benefits to small businesses across the economy that are able to upskill digitally and harness new technologies,” said Minister for Small Business Julie Collins. 

“We are providing a range of support to help small businesses excel online by investing more than $60 million in small business cyber security and digital training programs.”

For more information and to register for the free Introduction to AI course, visit the NSW government’s page here