Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly becoming a fixture in workplaces across various sectors, including the Victorian public sector.

This technological wave promises to bring about significant changes, enhancing efficiency and decision-making processes. However, with these advancements come critical concerns that need careful management to ensure a fair and equitable work environment.

Navigating Risks and Embracing Opportunities

A recent survey conducted by CPSU Victoria sheds light on the current landscape of AI use within the Victorian public sector. According to the survey, approximately 37% of respondents confirmed the use of AI in their workplaces. These applications range from data analysis and customer service to policy research and surveillance. Yet, a notable 38% of employees were unsure if AI was being used, highlighting a gap in awareness and communication.

The survey results paint a complex picture of AI's impact on the workforce. On one hand, AI offers clear benefits. For instance, many respondents acknowledged AI's potential to improve productivity and streamline mundane tasks, allowing employees to focus on more strategic activities.

This sentiment is echoed by 42% of survey participants who agree that AI enhances productivity and efficiency. Additionally, about 26% believe that AI can improve the quality of work.

However, these opportunities are tempered by significant risks and concerns.

The most pressing issue is job security.

A majority of respondents, around 61%, expressed fears that AI could threaten their jobs. This anxiety is not unfounded, as AI-driven automation could potentially replace various roles, particularly those involving repetitive and administrative tasks.

Privacy and transparency also emerged as major concerns. Nearly half of the respondents (48%) worried about privacy issues associated with AI, while 42% highlighted the lack of transparency in AI use. These concerns are amplified by the fact that a considerable number of employees are using AI tools without formal approval or their employer’s knowledge. Specifically, 22% of respondents admitted to using AI at work without informing their employer. This underscores the need for clear policies and guidelines to govern AI use in the workplace.

Bias in AI decision-making processes is another critical issue. Over 54% of survey participants are concerned about potential biases in AI systems. These biases can stem from the data used to train AI models, which may inadvertently perpetuate existing inequalities and discrimination. Ensuring that AI systems are designed and implemented in a way that promotes fairness and equity is crucial.

To address these challenges, several steps can be taken. Firstly, developing comprehensive AI policies is essential. These policies should clearly outline how AI is to be used, ensuring transparency and protecting employees' privacy and job security. Furthermore, there should be a focus on educating and upskilling employees, helping them understand AI technologies and equipping them to work alongside these tools effectively.

Another important measure is the establishment of ethical guidelines for AI use. These guidelines should emphasize the importance of human oversight in AI decision-making processes and ensure that AI is used to complement rather than replace human roles. Regular audits and assessments can help monitor compliance with these guidelines and address any issues that arise.

Collaboration between public sector organizations, unions like CPSU Victoria, and other stakeholders is vital. By working together, they can develop and implement strategies that harness AI's benefits while mitigating its risks. This collaborative approach will help build a more transparent, fair, and equitable environment for all employees.

CPSU Victoria will also be vigilant in monitoring the use of AI, particularly concerning employee data. The union will ensure that the government, as an employer, does not overstep or misuse AI in ways that could be damaging to employees. This includes preventing excessive surveillance, unauthorized data usage, and any actions that could undermine employees' privacy and job security. CPSU Victoria is committed to advocating for policies that protect workers' rights and ensure that AI is used ethically and responsibly.

In conclusion, while AI presents numerous opportunities for enhancing the Victorian public sector's efficiency and productivity, it also poses significant risks. Addressing these risks through clear policies, ethical guidelines, and continuous education is crucial for ensuring that AI's integration into the workplace is both beneficial and fair.

As we navigate this technological transformation, it is essential to keep the interests and well-being of public sector employees at the forefront, with CPSU Victoria actively safeguarding their rights.

At its recent Congress the ACTU endorsed a new industrial policy on AI with the focus on it being worker centric and giving unions a frame for negotiations on the roll out of AI in all its forms.