“Of course, Government also has a role to play in the adoption of AI in the workplace, as stewards of our workplace relations system.
“Because the question of how we can share the benefits I have mentioned is not yet settled.
“To answer this question, business, unions and their workers — along with Government — must work together.
“That is why we need a tripartite dialogue, to bring all parties together.
“And work out how we can get those productivity benefits, ensure workers are brought along on the journey, and that those benefits are shared.
“One of the ways I am building this dialogue is through the newly elevated AI Employment and Workplaces Forum.
“This tripartite Forum will bring together government, employers and unions around the same table, demonstrating the good will of all parties to tackle this challenge in a constructive way.
“And I am pleased to announce that tomorrow, I will be convening the Forum’s first ministerial-level meeting.
“The Forum will examine five key themes which will be essential to the adoption of AI in workplaces: trust, capability, transparency, safety and productivity.
“These themes will shape our discussions on how we can build common understanding and translate these themes into actions and outcomes in workplaces.
“Of course, this is a really fast-moving policy area.
“That’s why under the National AI Plan, my job as Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations is to ensure our workplace institutions, legislative settings and frameworks are compatible with the widespread adoption of AI.
“Because there is a live question about whether these settings are fit-for-purpose.
“My department is currently undertaking a gap analysis to identify how the current frameworks and institutions are interacting with the adoption of AI.
“And I commit to working with stakeholders on possible responses to that question, including through the Forum.
“Now can I be very clear.
“Tripartism does not, and should not, involve a right of veto.
“There will always be contestability — and I am not pretending this will be a silver bullet solution.
“But I really believe tripartism can build shared understanding and trust.
“Of course, in order to make these consultation mechanisms work effectively, we all need to be operating from the same set of facts.”
