Notes suggest Albanese's office approved wording in AI committee letter
Notes appear to show a senior adviser edited the AI letter before the committee sent it to the PM.
Notes on a letter about AI show a senior adviser in Albanese's office made several edits. The adviser wrote 'fine' next to some content, which seems to approve those lines.
Some edits were made as late as 8:55pm. That was 35 minutes before the letter was sent on Monday night.
Independent senator David Pocock gave his feedback at 9:55pm. He did not know the letter had already been sent.
Pocock said he is concerned the recommendations were checked in advance by an adviser in the PM's office. Committee chair Jo Briskey rejected criticism that the work was 'pre-determined' by the government.
The letter raises concerns about copyright, AI safeguards, sovereign capability (Australia's own ability) and AI literacy. The prime minister's office has declined to comment on the story.
- 8:55pm, 35 minutes before sending
- Last adviser edit
- 9:55pm, after the letter was sent
- Pocock feedback
- Jo Briskey
- Committee chair
Why it mattersIf the government edits committee letters first, voters may question whether the AI inquiry is independent.
AustraliaThe committee's report, due 30 November, could shape Australian rules on AI copyright and data centres.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 3 h ago
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