Murray-Darling Basin Authority

# AI transparency statement The Murray–Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) recognises the potential opportunities of using AI to achieve a healthy working Basin for the benefit of generations of Australians. In this statement, we describe: - our commitment to adopting and using AI responsibly - how we use AI - the role of our accountable officials - how we ensure quality and safety. ## Definition of AI We use the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) definition of AI: _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._ MDBA modelling systems that follow pre-defined instructions entered by a person aren’t included in this definition. ## Adoption and use We’re committed to the responsible, safe, and transparent use of AI according to legislative and regulatory requirements. This includes the [policy for the responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy) and [Australia’s AI Ethics Principles](https://www.industry.gov.au/publications/australias-artificial-intelligence-ethics-principles/australias-ai-ethics-principles). As part of this commitment, we use the [AI impact assessment tool](https://www.digital.gov.au/ai/impact-assessment-tool) to identify, assess, and manage AI use case impacts and risks against [Australia’s AI Ethics Principles](https://www.industry.gov.au/publications/australias-ai-ethics-principles). Consistent with the Government’s commitment to [digital innovation by adopting emerging technologies](https://www.dataanddigital.gov.au/strategy/missions/government-for-the-future#adopt_emerging_technologies), we’re trialing AI to explore how it can help achieve [our purpose](https://www.mdba.gov.au/about-us/who-we-are/our-purpose-values-and-strategic-direction) - Rivers, for generations. ## How we use AI We use a small number of AI tools and functions to improve efficiencies and augment processes. Currently, our approved AI use cases are within the: - Policy, corporate and enabling domains; and - Workplace productivity and Analytics for insights usage patterns, We do not use AI in any instance where the public directly interacts with or feels a significant impact from AI without a human agent. Staff review all AI tool outputs and treat them as drafts or starting points for further research, not for decision-making. ## Accountable officials The Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Chief Information Officer (CIO) are the accountable officials for the MDBA. They’re responsible for our AI strategy, risk management, and compliance as set out in the [policy for the responsible use of AI in government](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/policy). ## Safety and governance AI governance includes the processes, standards and guardrails that help ensure AI systems and tools are safe and used ethically. We manage AI initiatives within our technology governance and risk management practices including maintaining a register for AI systems. Before using AI technology, MDBA system owners must apply the [Pilot Australian Government AI assurance framework](https://www.digital.gov.au/policy/ai/pilot-ai-assurance-framework) and designate a senior responsible official. The senior responsible official and accountable officials will: - ensure AI is implemented safely and responsibly - monitor the effectiveness of the system - ensure legal and regulatory compliance - identify potential negative impacts in using AI - implement measures to mitigate risks. Senior responsible officials and accountable officials report to the MDBA Executive Board. ## Last updated It will be updated as our approach to AI evolves, and at least every 12 months. ## Contact For more information or enquiries about our adoption of AI, please [contact us](https://www.mdba.gov.au/about-us/contact-us/got-question-use-our-form "Got a question? Use our form").