New Telecommunications Financial Hardship Standard

On 6 February 2024, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) introduced a new industry standard, the Telecommunications (Financial Hardship) Industry Standard 2024 (the Standard). The Standard sets out new obligations and rules for telecommunications providers with respect to customers who are experiencing financial hardship (Financial Hardship Customers), replacing those currently in the industry code, …

The Australian Cyber Security Centre releases official guidance for the use of AI systems in organisations

The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC), collaborating with various international governmental partners, has released a guidance paper for organisations on the safe and secure use of artificial intelligence (AI) systems. Central to the paper is the recognition of AI’s transformative potential across various sectors. However, harnessing this potential requires a nuanced approach that prioritises responsible …

Standards Australia Embraces ISO/IEC 42001 Standard for AI Management Systems

Standards Australia welcomes the introduction of the International Organization for Standardization’s new ISO/IEC 42001 standard, focusing on Information Technology – Artificial Intelligence Management Systems. This significant development marks a pivotal moment in the global approach to regulating and managing artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. The ISO/IEC 42001 standard establishes guidelines and requirements for organisations in implementing …

Proposed cybersecurity legislative reforms to strengthen Australia’s digital defences

In response to the threat of cybersecurity attacks, the Australian government has proposed a series of legislative reforms aimed at bolstering the nation’s cyber defences and safeguarding its digital infrastructure. The proposed reforms, outlined in a consultation paper, present changes to the Security of Critical Infrastructure Act 2018 (Cth) and represent a proactive step towards …

The Australasian Institute of Judicial Administration releases updated guide on AI decision-making and the courts

The Australasian Institute of Judicial Administration has released an updated version of its guide on artificial intelligence (AI) decision-making and the courts. The report factors in new ethical and legal considerations surrounding the use of AI in decision-making by judges. The report highlights the potential benefits of AI in streamlining decision-making processes, particularly in terms …

Meta faces legal battle over alleged teen addiction to social media

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, finds itself entangled in a lawsuit filed by 41 US states alleging the platform deliberately lured teenagers into addiction. The crux of the lawsuit centres around the claim that Meta has knowingly and wilfully designed its platforms to exploit the vulnerability of teenagers, making them more susceptible to addiction. …

PayPal’s AI patent refused in Australia

In a recent development, Australia’s stance on computer-implemented business methods has been reinforced by the rejection of PayPal’s artificial intelligence (AI) patent. The decision of PayPal, Inc. [2023] APO 54 (27 October 2023) sheds light on the challenges faced by companies seeking to patent AI innovations with business applications in the Australian jurisdiction. The crux …

Australia unveils Cyber Security Strategy 2023-2030 to safeguard the nation’s digital future

Australia has recently unveiled its much-anticipated Cyber Security Strategy for the years 2023-2030, prepared by the Department of Home Affairs. This comprehensive strategy represents a significant commitment to fortify the nation’s defences against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. The strategy is underscored by a collaborative ethos, emphasising the importance of partnerships between the government …

Artificial intelligence influence on the next Australian election

As Australia gears up for its next federal election in 2025, the role of technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), is poised to take centre stage in shaping the political landscape. AI’s influence on elections is not a novel concept, but its applications are evolving rapidly. Commentators have warned that political parties are increasingly leveraging AI …

Uber faces hefty penalty for breach of Australian spam laws

Rideshare and food delivery giant Uber has found itself in hot water, as it has been slapped with a substantial penalty of $412,500 for violating Australian spam laws. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) took decisive action against the tech company, emphasising the significance of adhering to privacy regulations in Australia. The penalty comes …