Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water

Skip to page navigation # Artificial Intelligence Transparency Statement This page explains how we are using Artificial Intelligence, in line with the Digital Transformation Agency’s (DTA) [Policy for responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy). We recognise that AI can help in supporting delivery of the outcomes in our [Corporate Plan](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/reporting/corporate-plan "Corporate plan"). Our commitment to digital innovation aligns with the Australian Government’s [Data and Digital Government Strategy](https://www.dataanddigital.gov.au/strategy/missions/government-for-the-future#adopt_emerging_technologies), the [National AI Plan](https://www.industry.gov.au/publications/national-ai-plan) and the [APS AI Plan 2025](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/australian-public-service-ai-plan-2025/what-we-plan-achieve). When we refer to AI, we use the [Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development](https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/explanatory-memorandum-on-the-updated-oecd-definition-of-an-ai-system_623da898-en.html) (OECD) definition: > "A machine-based system that, for explicit or implicit objectives, infers, from the input it receives, how to generate outputs such as predictions, content, recommendations, or decisions that can influence physical or virtual environments. Different AI systems vary in their levels of autonomy and adaptiveness after deployment." (OECD) We commit to using AI in a safe and responsible manner. We always use AI with human oversight or intervention. ## How we use AI We currently use AI to support the delivery of innovative and expert advice to the Australian Government, grounded in evidence and science. We classify our use of AI and related domains using the Australian Government classification system (see the Classification system for AI use on the DTA [Artificial intelligence in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/resources/use-classification) page), tailored to the department’s activities. Our current use of AI focuses on policy, scientific, and administrative and regulatory domains, with humans always making the final decisions. We also use AI in corporate and enabling services, including media monitoring activities and support for clear communication. Across these domains, we use AI to support policy development, analysis, monitoring, decision making, and communication by: *- informing decision making and administrative actions by providing input to human decision makers. For example, analysing document sets submitted to the department to ensure all relevant information is included. *- finding and creating insights from data through detailed analysis, predictive modelling, and reporting. For example, creating insights from unstructured PDF documents. *- improving workplace productivity through task automation, workflow management and communication support. For example, checking that documents meet accessibility requirements and providing feedback to improve clarity and conciseness. *- processing sensor data (such as video, imagery, sound, and radar) to identify patterns and objects. For example, identifying the presence of animals using thermal imaging. We support staff using generative AI tools, by providing guidance on how to do so responsibly and ethically, and in accordance with relevant legislation and policies. Users of generative AI tools are reminded of their individual responsibilities when accessing publicly available tools. ### AI in recruitment trial We are undertaking a limited, opt-in trial of AI in recruitment. AI will be used to support comparison and evaluation of recruitment processes, alongside standard human assessment for this process. We do not use AI to make selection decisions about candidates. All decisions to shortlist, assess or select candidates are made by a human selection panel, consistent with APS merit based recruitment principles. Results and outcomes of the trial will be explored once the recruitment process is completed. We continue exploring applications of AI to support our vision, purposes and outcomes as set out in our [Corporate Plan](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/reporting/corporate-plan "Corporate plan") and the [APS AI Plan 2025](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/australian-public-service-ai-plan-2025/what-we-plan-achieve). This may include uses across policy development, program delivery, asset management, the administration of legislation and regulation. We will continue to update this statement as its use of AI changes. ## Public interaction and impact We are committed to ensuring our use of AI benefits the public. We recognise that assessing whether a particular use of AI is beneficial often requires judgement. Any decisions or outcomes generated or informed by AI that could affect the public will include human oversight or intervention to ensure fairness and accountability. ## Monitoring AI effectiveness and impacts We have established and maintain an AI use case register and risk assessment process. The register collects information on AI solutions that are in development or in use across the department. Each use case has an identified executive sponsor and business owner. When completing the register, business owners ensure AI solutions is implemented safely and responsibly. This includes completing risk assessment and monitoring risk mitigating activities, ongoing effectiveness, potential negative impacts and implement steps to alleviate possible harms. The AI register and AI risk assessment align with the DTA’s: *- [Technical standard for government’s use of artificial intelligence](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/AI-technical-standard) *- [AI Impact Assessment Tool](https://www.digital.gov.au/ai/impact-assessment-tool) *- [Guidance on AI procurement in government](https://www.buyict.gov.au/sp?id=buyer&kb=KB0011755). To support AI risk mitigation, we have finalised our AI Risk Appetite Guidelines which sit alongside tools supporting staff to assess and manage risk effectively. We have also developed and published an AI ethics and governance framework that aligns with whole-of-government policy. ## Compliance We use AI in line with: *- applicable legislation and regulations *- whole-of-government frameworks and policies *- the [Policy for responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy). We review compliance through existing governance and risk management processes. As we implement our [Enterprise Data Strategy](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment/information-public-data/strategy "Enterprise Data Strategy"), we continue to build a culture that balances innovation with responsible AI risk management and use. ## Accountable official Our Chief Data Officer was designated as the accountable official for the department under the [Policy for the responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy) on 11 November 2024. ## Contact For questions about this statement, contact: [CDO@dcceew.gov.au](mailto:CDO@dcceew.gov.au) ## AI Transparency Statement review and updates We last updated this statement in April 2026. We will review and update it if our approach to or use of AI changes, and at least every 12 months, in line with policy requirements.

Skip to page navigation # Artificial Intelligence Transparency Statement This page explains how we are using Artificial Intelligence, in line with the Digital Transformation Agency’s (DTA) [Policy for responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy). We recognise that AI can help in supporting delivery of the outcomes in our [Corporate Plan](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/reporting/corporate-plan "Corporate plan"). Our commitment to digital innovation aligns with the Australian Government’s [Data and Digital Government Strategy](https://www.dataanddigital.gov.au/strategy/missions/government-for-the-future#adopt_emerging_technologies), the [National AI Plan](https://www.industry.gov.au/publications/national-ai-plan) and the [APS AI Plan 2025](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/australian-public-service-ai-plan-2025/what-we-plan-achieve). When we refer to AI, we use the [Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)](https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/science-and-technologyen/publications/explanatory-memorandum-on-the-updated-oecd-definition-of-an-ai-system_623da898-en.html) (OECD) definition: > "A machine-based system that, for explicit or implicit objectives, infers, from the input it receives, how to generate outputs such as predictions, content, recommendations, or decisions that can influence physical or virtual environments. Different AI systems vary in their levels of autonomy and adaptiveness after deployment." (OECD) We commit to using AI in a safe and responsible manner. We always use AI with human oversight or intervention. ## How we use AI We currently use AI to support the delivery of innovative and expert advice to the Australian Government, grounded in evidence and science. We classify our use of AI and related domains using the Australian Government classification system (see the Classification system for AI use on the DTA [Artificial intelligence in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/resources/use-classification) page), tailored to the department’s activities. Our current use of AI focuses on policy, scientific, and administrative and regulatory domains, with humans always making the final decisions. We also use AI in corporate and enabling services, including media monitoring activities and support for clear communication. Across these domains, we use AI to support policy development, analysis, monitoring, decision making, and communication by: * informing decision making and administrative actions by providing input to human decision makers. For example, analysing document sets submitted to the department to ensure all relevant information is included. * finding and creating insights from data through detailed analysis, predictive modelling, and reporting. For example, creating insights from unstructured PDF documents. * improving workplace productivity through task automation, workflow management and communication support. For example, checking that documents meet accessibility requirements and providing feedback to improve clarity and conciseness. * processing sensor data (such as video, imagery, sound, and radar) to identify patterns and objects. For example, identifying the presence of animals using thermal imaging. We support staff using generative AI tools, by providing guidance on how to do so responsibly and ethically, and in accordance with relevant legislation and policies. Users of generative AI tools are reminded of their individual responsibilities when accessing publicly available tools. ### AI in recruitment trial We are undertaking a limited, opt-in trial of AI in recruitment. AI will be used to support comparison and evaluation of recruitment processes, alongside standard human assessment for this process. We do not use AI to make selection decisions about candidates. All decisions to shortlist, assess or select candidates are made by a human selection panel, consistent with APS merit based recruitment principles. Results and outcomes of the trial will be explored once the recruitment process is completed. We continue exploring applications of AI to support our vision, purposes and outcomes as set out in our [Corporate Plan](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/reporting/corporate-plan "Corporate plan") and the [APS AI Plan 2025](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/australian-public-service-ai-plan-2025/what-we-plan-achieve). This may include uses across policy development, program delivery, asset management, the administration of legislation and regulation. We will continue to update this statement as ourits use of AI changes. ## Public interaction and impact We are committed to ensuring our use of AI benefits the public. We recognise that assessing whether a particular use of AI is beneficial often requires judgement. Any decisions or outcomes generated or informed by AI that could affect the public will include human oversight or intervention to ensure fairness and accountability. ## Monitoring AI effectiveness and impacts We have established and maintain an AI use case register and risk assessment process. The register collects information on AI solutions that are in development or in use across the department. Each use case has an identified executive sponsor and business owner. When completing the register, business owners ensure AI solutions areis implemented safely and responsibly. This includes completing risk assessment and monitoring risk mitigating activities, ongoing effectiveness, potential negative impacts and implement steps to alleviate possible harms. The AI register and AI risk assessment align with the DTA’s: * [Technical standard for government’s use of artificial intelligence](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/AI-technical-standard) * [AI Impact Assessment Tool](https://www.digital.gov.au/ai/impact-assessment-tool) * [Guidance on AI procurement in government](https://www.buyict.gov.au/sp?id=buyer&kb=KB0011755). To support AI risk mitigation, we willhave finalisefinalised our AI Risk Appetite Guidelines which sit alongside tools supporting staff to assess and manage risk effectively. We have also developed and published an AI ethics and governance framework that aligns with whole-of-government policy. ## Compliance We use AI in line with: * applicable legislation and regulations * whole-of-government frameworks and policies * the [Policy for responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy). We review compliance through existing governance and risk management processes. As we implement our [Enterprise Data Strategy](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment/information-public-data/strategy "Enterprise Data Strategy"), we continue to build a culture that balances innovation with responsible AI risk management and use. ## Accountable official Our Chief Data Officer was designated as the accountable official for the department under the [Policy for the responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy) on 11 November 2024. ## Contact For questions about this statement, contact: [CDO@dcceew.gov.au](mailto:CDO@dcceew.gov.au) ## AI Transparency Statement review and updates We last updated this statement Februaryin April 2026. We will review and update it if our approach to or use of AI changes, and at least every 12 months, in line with policy requirements.

Skip to page navigation # Artificial Intelligence Transparency Statement Last updated: 19 February 2026 This page explains how we are using Artificial Intelligence, in line with the Digital Transformation Agency’s (DTA) [Policy for responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy). We recognise that AI can help in supporting delivery of the outcomes in our [Corporate Plan](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/reporting/corporate-plan "Corporate plan"). Our commitment to digital innovation aligns with the Australian Government’s [Data and Digital Government Strategy](https://www.dataanddigital.gov.au/strategy/missions/government-for-the-future#adopt_emerging_technologies), the [National AI Plan](https://www.industry.gov.au/publications/national-ai-plan) and the [APS AI Plan 2025](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/australian-public-service-ai-plan-2025/what-we-plan-achieve). When we refer to AI, we use the [Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)](https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/science-and-technology/explanatory-memorandum-on-the-updated-oecd-definition-of-an-ai-system_623da898-en) definition: > "A machine-based system that, for explicit or implicit objectives, infers, from the input it receives, how to generate outputs such as predictions, content, recommendations, or decisions that can influence physical or virtual environments. Different AI systems vary in their levels of autonomy and adaptiveness after deployment." (OECD) We commit to using AI in a safe and responsible manner. We always use AI with human oversight or intervention. ## How we use AI We currently use AI to support the delivery of innovative and expert advice to the Australian Government grounded in evidence and science. We classify our use of AI and related domains using the Australian Government classification system (see the Classification system for AI use on the DTA [Artificial intelligence in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/resources/use-classification) page), tailored to the department’s activities. Our current use of AI focuses on policy, scientific, and administrative and regulatory domains, with humans always making the final decisions. We also use AI in corporate and enabling services, including media monitoring activities and support for clear communication. Across these domains, we use AI to support policy development, analysis, monitoring, decision making, and communication by: * informing decision making and administrative actions by providing input to human decision makers. For example, analysing document sets submitted to the department to ensure all relevant information is included. * finding and creating insights from data through detailed analysis, predictive modelling, and reporting. For example, creating insights from unstructured PDF documents. * improving workplace productivity through task automation, workflow management and communication support. For example, checking that documents meet accessibility requirements and providing feedback to improve clarity and conciseness. * processing sensor data (such as video, imagery, sound, and radar) to identify patterns and objects. For example, identifying the presence of animals using thermal imaging. We support staff using generative AI tools, by providing guidance on how to do so responsibly and ethically, and in accordance with relevant legislation and policies. Users of generative AI tools are reminded of their individual responsibilities when accessing publicly available tools. We continue exploring applications of AI to support our vision, purposes and outcomes as set out in our [Corporate Plan](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/reporting/corporate-plan "Corporate plan") and the [APS AI Plan 2025](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/australian-public-service-ai-plan-2025/what-we-plan-achieve). This may include uses across policy development, program delivery, asset management, the administration of legislation and regulation. We will update this statement as our use of AI changes. ## Public interaction and impact We are committed to ensuring our use of AI benefits the public. We recognise that assessing whether a particular use of AI is beneficial often requires judgement. Any decisions or outcomes generated or informed by AI that could affect the public will include human oversight or intervention to ensure fairness and accountability. ## Monitoring AI effectiveness and impacts We have established and maintain an AI use case register and risk assessment process. The register collects information on AI solutions that are in development or in use across the department. Each use case has an identified executive sponsor and business owner. When completing the register, business owners ensure AI solutions are implemented safely and responsibly. This includes completing risk assessment and monitoring risk mitigating activities, ongoing effectiveness, potential negative impacts and implement steps to alleviate possible harms. The AI register and AI risk assessment align with the DTA’s: * [Technical standard for government’s use of artificial intelligence](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/AI-technical-standard) * [AI Impact Assessment Tool](https://www.digital.gov.au/ai/impact-assessment-tool) * [Guidance on AI procurement in government](https://www.buyict.gov.au/sp?id=buyer&kb=KB0011755). To support AI risk mitigation, we will finalise our AI Risk Appetite Guidelines which sit alongside tools supporting staff to assess and manage risk effectively. We have also developed and published an AI ethics and governance framework that aligns with whole-of-government policy. ## Compliance We use AI in line with: * applicable legislation and regulations * whole-of-government frameworks and policies * the [Policy for responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy). We review compliance through existing governance and risk management processes. As we implement our [Enterprise Data Strategy](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment/information-public-data/strategy "Enterprise Data Strategy"), we continue to build a culture that balances innovation with responsible AI risk management and use. ## Accountable official Our Chief Data Officer was designated as the accountable official for the department under the [Policy for the responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy) on 11 November 2024. ## Contact For questions about this statement, contact: [CDO@dcceew.gov.au](mailto:CDO@dcceew.gov.au) ## AI Transparency Statement review and updates We last updated this statement February 2026. We will review and update it if our approach to or use of AI changes, and at least every 12 months, in line with policy requirements.

Skip to page navigation # Artificial Intelligence Transparency Statement Last updated: 2819 February 20252026 InThis accordancepage explains how we are using Artificial Intelligence, in line with the Digital Transformation Agency’s (DTA) [Policy for responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy), this page provides the department’s statement on Artificial Intelligence (AI) Transparency. TheWe departmentrecognise seesthat potentialAI tocan usehelp AIin tosupporting support delivery of the outcomes in our [Corporate Plan](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/reporting/corporate-plan "Corporate plan") and realise benefits for the organisation and public. TheOur department’s commitment to digital innovation aligns with the Australian Government’s [Data and Digital Government Strategy](https://www.dataanddigital.gov.au/strategy/missions/government-for-the-future#adopt_emerging_technologies), inthe relation[National toAI adoptingPlan](https://www.industry.gov.au/publications/national-ai-plan) emergingand technologiesthe [APS AI Plan 2025](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/australian-public-service-ai-plan-2025/what-we-plan-achieve). When referringwe refer to AI, thewe departmentuse applies the [Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)](https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/science-and-technology/explanatory-memorandum-on-the-updated-oecd-definition-of-an-ai-system_623da898-en) definition: > "A machine-based system that, for explicit or implicit objectives, infers, from the input it receives, how to generate outputs such as predictions, content, recommendations, or decisions that can influence physical or virtual environments. Different AI systems vary in their levels of autonomy and adaptiveness after deployment." (OECD). TheWe departmentcommit commits to using AI in a safe and responsible manner. We always use AI with human oversight or intervention. ## How we use AI TheWe department is currently usinguse AI to support ourthe delivery of innovative and expert advice to the Australian Government grounded in evidence and science. TheWe classificationclassify ofour theuse departments usage of AI and related domains isusing based on the Australian GovernmentsGovernment classification system (see the Classification system for AI use on the DTA [Artificial intelligence in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/resources/use-classification) page), tailored to the department’s activities. TheOur department’s current use of AI isfocuses focusedon in the policy, scientific, and administrative and regulatory domains, always with ahumans humanalways asmaking athe decisionfinal makerdecisions. TheWe departmentalso is making some use of AI in corporate and enabling services, –including in its media monitoring activities and to support for clear communication. Across these domains, thewe departmentuse uses AI to support policy development, analysis, monitoring, decision making, and communication by: * Informinginforming decision making and administrative actions by providing input to a human decision makermakers. For example, analysing document sets submitted to the department to ensure all relevant information is included. * Findingfinding and creating insights from various types of data through detailed analysis, predictive modelling, and reporting. For example, creating insights from unstructured PDF documents. * Improvingimproving workplace productivity, including through automationtask of tasksautomation, workflow management of workflows and enabling communication support. For example, checking that documents meet required accessibility standardsrequirements and providing feedback on how to makeimprove writingclarity clear and conciseconciseness. * Processingprocessing sensor data (videographysuch as video, imagery, sound, radarand etc.radar) to identify patterns and objects. For example, identifying the presence of animals fromusing thermal imaging. TheWe departmentsupport supportsstaff theusing use of generative AI tools, by staff,providing guidance is provided on how to do so responsibly and ethically, and in accordance with relevant legislation and policies. Users of generative AI tools are reminded of their individual responsibilities when accessing publicly available tools. We will continue toexploring explore further applications of AI to support our vision, purposes and outcomes as set out in our [Corporate Plan](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/reporting/corporate-plan "Corporate plan") and the [APS AI Plan 2025](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/australian-public-service-ai-plan-2025/what-we-plan-achieve). This may include applicationsuses across policy development, program delivery, asset management, the administration of legislation and regulation. We will update this statement as our use of AI changes. ## Public interaction and impact OurWe departmentare is committed to ensuring thatour the use of AI bybenefits the department is for the benefit of the public. TheWe departmentrecognise recognises that anassessing assessment of whether a particular use of AI is beneficial will often involverequires the exercise of judgement. Therefore,Any any decisions or outcomes generated or informed by AI that could affect the public will involveinclude human oversight or intervention to ensure fairness and accountability. ## Monitoring AI effectiveness and impacts TheWe departmenthave has established and maintainsmaintain an AI use case register and risk assessment process. The register collects information abouton AI solutions that are in development or in use across the Departmentdepartment. AnEach executiveuse sponsorcase ishas an identified forexecutive eachsponsor useand case, along with its business owner. InWhen completing the register, business owners must ensure that AI issolutions are implemented safely and responsibly. whichThis includes identifyingcompleting howrisk theyassessment monitorand monitoring risk mitigating activities, ongoing effectiveness, identify potential negative impacts and implement steps implemented to mitigatealleviate potentialpossible harms from AI use. ThereThe isAI highregister leveland alignmentAI betweenrisk theassessment registeralign andwith the DTA’s: * [CommonwealthTechnical AIstandard Assurancefor frameworkgovernment’s pilotuse of artificial intelligence](https://www.dtadigital.gov.au/blogspolicy/dta-pilots-new-ai/AI-assurancetechnical-frameworkstandard), * with[AI theImpact riskAssessment ofTool](https://www.digital.gov.au/ai/impact-assessment-tool) * each[Guidance solutionon assessedAI underprocurement thein assurance framework risk matrixgovernment](https://www.buyict.gov.au/sp?id=buyer&kb=KB0011755). To Shouldsupport anyAI high-risk usemitigation, caseswe bewill surfacedfinalise throughour theAI registerRisk reportingAppetite toGuidelines thewhich DTAsit willalongside occurtools insupporting linestaff withto theassess Policyand requirementsmanage risk effectively. The departmentWe willhave developalso developed and publishpublished an AI ethics and governance framework that aligns with whole -of -government policy. ## Compliance TheWe departmentuse will utilise AI in accordanceline with: * applicable legislation, and regulations, * whole-of-government frameworks and policies. We * will comply with all mandatory requirements of the [Policy for responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy). We will regularly review our compliance asthrough a part of existing governance, and risk management processes. As thewe departmentimplement implementsour its [Enterprise Data Strategy](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment/information-public-data/strategy "Enterprise Data Strategy"), we willcontinue ensureto ongoingbuild compliance by embedding a culture that balances innovation with responsible AI risk management and innovationuse. ## Accountable official TheOur department’s Chief Data Officer was designated as the accountable official for the department under the [Policy for the responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy) on 11 November 2024. ## Contact For questions about this statement, pleasecontact: email [CDO@dcceew.gov.au](mailto:CDO@dcceew.gov.au) ## AI transparencyTransparency statement ThisStatement statementreview wasand updates We last updated inthis statement February 20252026. We Inwill linereview withand theupdate [Policy for responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy) it will be updated if our approach to andor use of AI changes, and at least every twelve12 months, in line with policy requirements.

Skip to main content ## Sidebar first - About * [Our commitment to you](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment) * [First Nations people](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment/first-nations) * [Accessibility](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment/accessibility) * [Client service charter](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment/client-service-charter) * [Claiming compensation](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment/compensation) * [Compliance Policy](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment/compliance-policy) * [Information management and public data](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment/information-public-data) * [Integrity](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment/integrity) * [National Redress Scheme](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment/national-redress-scheme) * [Privacy](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment/privacy) * [Regulator Performance](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment/regulator-performance) * [Environmental compliance](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment/environmental-compliance) * [Environmental Compliance Plan 2024-25](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment/environmental-compliance/compliance-plan-2024-25) * [Health, Safety and Wellbeing Commitment Statement](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment/work-health-safety-statement) Skip to page navigation # Artificial Intelligence Transparency Statement Last updated: 28 February 2025 In accordance with the Digital Transformation Agency’s (DTA) [Policy for responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy), this page provides the department’s statement on Artificial Intelligence (AI) Transparency. The department sees potential to use AI to support delivery of the outcomes in our [Corporate Plan](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/reporting/corporate-plan "Corporate plan") and realise benefits for the organisation and public. The department’s commitment to digital innovation aligns with the Australian Government’s [Data and Digital Government Strategy](https://www.dataanddigital.gov.au/strategy/missions/government-for-the-future#adopt_emerging_technologies) in relation to adopting emerging technologies. When referring to AI the department applies the [Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)](https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/science-and-technology/explanatory-memorandum-on-the-updated-oecd-definition-of-an-ai-system_623da898-en) definition: > "A machine-based system that, for explicit or implicit objectives, infers, from the input it receives, how to generate outputs such as predictions, content, recommendations, or decisions that can influence physical or virtual environments. Different AI systems vary in their levels of autonomy and adaptiveness after deployment" (OECD). The department commits to using AI in a safe and responsible manner. We always use AI with human oversight or intervention. ## How we use AI The department is currently using AI to support our delivery of innovative and expert advice to the Australian Government grounded in evidence and science. The classification of the departments usage of AI and domains is based on the Australian Governments classification system (see Classification system for AI use on the DTA [Artificial intelligence in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/resources/use-classification) page), tailored to the department’s activities. The department’s current use of AI is focused in the policy, scientific, and administrative and regulatory domains, always with a human as a decision maker. The department is making some use of AI in corporate and enabling services – in its media monitoring activities and to support clear communication. Across these domains, the department uses AI to support policy development, analysis, monitoring, decision making and communication by: * Informing decision making and administrative actions by providing input to a human decision maker. For example, analysing document sets submitted to the department to ensure all relevant information is included. * Finding and creating insights from various types of data through detailed analysis, predictive modelling, and reporting. For example, creating insights from unstructured PDF documents. * Improving workplace productivity, including through automation of tasks, management of workflows and enabling communication. For example, checking that documents meet required accessibility standards and providing feedback on how to make writing clear and concise. * Processing sensor data (videography, imagery, sound, radar etc.) to identify patterns and objects. For example, identifying the presence of animals from thermal imaging. The department supports the use of generative AI tools by staff, guidance is provided on how to do so responsibly and ethically, and in accordance with relevant legislation and policies. Users of generative AI tools are reminded of their individual responsibilities when accessing publicly available tools. We will continue to explore further applications of AI to support our vision, purposes and outcomes as set out in our [Corporate Plan](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/reporting/corporate-plan "Corporate plan"). This may include applications across policy development, program delivery, asset management, the administration of legislation and regulation. We will update this statement as our use of AI changes. ## Public interaction and impact Our department is committed to ensuring that the use of AI by the department is for the benefit of the public. The department recognises that an assessment of whether a particular use of AI is beneficial will often involve the exercise of judgement. Therefore, any decisions or outcomes generated or informed by AI that could affect the public will involve human oversight or intervention to ensure fairness and accountability. ## Monitoring AI effectiveness and impacts The department has established and maintains an AI use case register. The register collects information about AI solutions that are in development or use across the Department. An executive sponsor is identified for each use case, along with its business owner. In completing the register business owners must ensure that AI is implemented safely and responsibly which includes identifying how they monitor ongoing effectiveness, identify potential negative impacts and steps implemented to mitigate potential harms from AI use. There is high level alignment between the register and the [Commonwealth AI Assurance framework pilot](https://www.dta.gov.au/blogs/dta-pilots-new-ai-assurance-framework), with the risk of each solution assessed under the assurance framework risk matrix. Should any high-risk use cases be surfaced through the register reporting to the DTA will occur in line with the Policy requirements. The department will develop and publish an AI ethics and governance framework that aligns with whole of government policy. ## Compliance The department will utilise AI in accordance with applicable legislation, regulations, frameworks and policies. We will comply with all mandatory requirements of the [Policy for responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy). We will regularly review our compliance as a part of existing governance, and risk management processes. As the department implements its [Enterprise Data Strategy](https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/commitment/information-public-data/strategy "Enterprise Data Strategy") we will ensure ongoing compliance by embedding a culture that balances AI risk management and innovation. ## Accountable official The department’s Chief Data Officer was designated as the accountable official for the department under the [Policy for the responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy) on 11 November 2024. ## Contact For questions about this statement, please email [CDO@dcceew.gov.au](mailto:CDO@dcceew.gov.au) ## AI transparency statement This statement was last updated in February 2025. In line with the [Policy for responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy) it will be updated if our approach to and use of AI changes, and at least every twelve months.