Engineers Australia has welcomed Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s announcement of a new national framework for artificial intelligence (AI), saying engineering expertise should play a central role in the development and implementation of future AI policy.
In a statement, the professional body said the government’s proposed approach to AI regulation presents an opportunity to strengthen governance while supporting Australia’s competitiveness and public confidence in the technology.
According to Engineers Australia, more than 43 per cent of engineers in Australia currently use generative AI in their work, with adoption rising to 63 per cent among early-career engineers and 74 per cent among engineering students.
Engineers Australia National President and Board Chair Tom Goerke said the organisation welcomed the government’s focus on regulation as AI technologies continue to evolve.
“Strong AI regulation is essential, and we welcome the Government’s first steps in ensuring clear standards for large data centres, including energy, water and infrastructure requirements,” Goerke said.
“Engineers will be critical to turning these ambitions into reality, managing complex technical risks and ensuring Australia remains internationally competitive while building community trust in AI.”
Goerke said the planned establishment of a new Office of AI also provides an opportunity to strengthen engineering capability within government and support evidence-based policy development.
“To improve project delivery, reduce risk and lift national productivity, engineering expertise must be at the centre of AI policy, regulation, rollout and ongoing oversight,” he said.
Engineers Australia also pointed to workforce readiness as an area requiring attention, citing its research showing that around two-thirds of engineers have received no formal employer-provided training in generative AI and are largely self-taught.
Goerke said universities, professional bodies and industry all have a role to play in preparing engineers for the increasing use of AI.
“We have strongly endorsed the need for universities, alongside professional bodies, to play a greater role in equipping engineers with the critical skills required to harness the benefits of AI while operating within appropriate ethical frameworks,” he said.
“It will take a coordinated approach across schools, universities and organisations such as Engineers Australia to ensure engineers are taught the technical and professional capabilities needed to effectively harness the benefits of AI.”
Engineers Australia said it is prepared to work with the Federal Government on the development of AI standards, with Goerke adding: “We stand ready to help the Federal Government develop these standards.”
