Georgie Moore
(Australian Associated Press)

 

Scott Morrison warns countries such as Australia must prevent emerging technologies like artificial intelligence being used as tools of repression.

The prime minister will detail to an Australian Strategic Policy Institute forum on Wednesday his government’s blueprint for so-called critical technologies.

These refer to current and emerging trends, including artificial intelligence, with the potential to enhance or put at risk economic prosperity, social cohesion and national security.

Quantum technologies will be at the centre of a $70 million hub aimed at commercialising Australian research under an agreement with the United States.

“This is about capitalising on our competitive advantage and taking our research to the world,” Mr Morrison will tell the Sydney Dialogue forum.

The prime minister will frame Australia’s AUKUS pact with the United States and United Kingdom as a way to address technological disruption.

He wants to promote Australia as a trusted and secure partner for like-minded countries to collaborate on technologies including artificial intelligence.

“We want technology to protect our citizens’ autonomy, privacy and data,” Mr Morrison will say.

“But not all governments see technology the same way.”

The prime minister will stress Australia is committed to ensuring emerging technologies are governed in ways that “reflect the values of open societies”.

“We cannot shy away from the ethical implications,” Mr Morrison will say.

“We need to be asking ourselves what should be done with technology — not just what can be done.”