Key facts
- Andrew Hastie warned Australia risks falling behind in the AI race.
- He compared the current AI development to the Cold War nuclear arms race.
- Hastie called for increased investment in AI to preserve strategic independence.
- He suggested overhauling the education system to prepare students for AI.
- Hastie cautioned that failing to invest in AI could lead to Australia becoming a "supplicant state" to the US.
Liberal MP Andrew Hastie has issued a stark warning that Australia risks becoming a "supplicant state" if it fails to dramatically scale up investment in artificial intelligence. Speaking at the annual Tom Hughes Oration in Sydney, Hastie drew parallels between the current AI development race and the Cold War nuclear arms race, emphasizing the potential for diminished sovereignty and strategic independence.
Hastie argued that Australia missed the opportunity to become a nuclear power last century, resulting in a reliance on the US for security. He fears a similar outcome this century if the nation does not become an AI power, potentially leaving it further constrained by global AI superpowers like the US and China.
He highlighted the influence of major tech companies and their executives in the US, noting their resistance to regulation. Hastie also pointed out Australia's precarious position between its key security partner, the US, and its largest trading partner, China, both vying for AI dominance, particularly concerning semiconductor production in Taiwan.
The shadow minister cautioned that a conflict in the Taiwan Strait, potentially over AI and advanced chips, would be far worse than any Middle East conflict and that Australia would be unable to avoid involvement. He stressed the need for preventative efforts.
This intervention comes as the Australian government considers its approach to AI, with differing views between former minister Ed Husic's call for guardrails and current minister Tim Ayres' preference for a lighter touch. Hastie also warned of significant economic implications, including widespread job displacement due to automation and potential social upheaval if work is stripped of meaning.
Considering his position as a potential future Liberal leader, Hastie's policy contributions are closely watched. He also criticized a decline in educational standards over the past 25 years, stating that unprepared students, particularly from disadvantaged backgrounds, will exacerbate economic and social divides and cause Australia to fall behind globally.