Australia is working with Papua New Guinea and Indo-Pacific partners to support the safe, secure and inclusive adaptation of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The Australian Strategic Policy Institute’s Artificial Intelligence Masterclass in Canberra brought together senior government officials, industry representatives and civil society experts from across the region.

The discussions focused on the opportunities, challenges and strategic implications of AI, as well as how emerging technologies can support economic development and improve lives.

Australia’s Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology, Jessica Hunter, moderated a panel discussion on AI adoption across the Indo-Pacific.

The panel featured Department of Information, Communications and Technology Secretary Steven Matainaho, alongside international experts Vidushi Chaturvedi and Amit Shukla.

Hunter said while AI is increasingly transforming strategic, economic and security planning across the region, collaboration and practical partnerships will be essential to ensuring countries can safely and effectively adopt the technology.

“By sharing practical use cases, strengthening partnerships and learning from one another's experiences, countries across the Indo-Pacific can be more than just adopters; they can shape an AI-enabled future that is inclusive, practical and delivers real benefits for our communities,” Hunter said.

Australia says it looks forward to deepening its partnership with PNG and other Indo-Pacific nations to promote the safe, secure and inclusive use of artificial intelligence for a more prosperous and resilient future for the region.