Artificial Intelligence Policy
The Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy for public sector officers in the Northern Territory (NT) Government outlines government’s requirements when artificial intelligence (AI) systems, tools and components are used.
Acceptable use of AI
The policy requires all use of AI must comply with:
- acceptable use of digital resources policy
- the Code of Conduct
- and align with the AI ethics principles outlined in the AI Assurance Framework
AI systems that have a tangible impact on government services, operations or the public must be assessed against the AI Assurance Framework.
Conditions for assistive AI tools
The use of widely available, standalone commercial AI tools for general productivity is permitted, provided personal and sensitive information is not used and the user retains full control over the final output.
These tools do not require assessment against the AI assurance framework but are subject to strict conditions including but not limited to:
- public sector officers must not enter or upload personal or sensitive information into public or third-party AI tools
- public sector officers must validate AI-generated content for accuracy, bias, relevance and appropriateness before use.
Endorsed assistive AI tools
Microsoft Copilot (with enterprise data protection) is currently endorsed as a generative AI tool for public sector officers.
With enterprise data protection, Copilot operates securely within the NT Government environment, allowing for the use of sensitive information with caution.
Definitions
AI Assurance Framework | The formal NT Government framework used to assess and manage the risks of AI systems that have a tangible impact on government services, operations or the public. |
| Artificial intelligence (AI) | The NT Government defines Artificial Intelligence (AI) as intelligent technology, programs and the use of advanced computing algorithms that can augment decision making by identifying meaningful patterns in data and creating new content. AI in this context should aim to help government agencies cut costs, free up labour hours for more critical tasks, and deliver better, more targeted services. |
| Assistive AI tools | Are widely available, low-risk software applications that enhance individual productivity. The user directs the tool and retains full control and accountability for the final output. |
| NT Government digital resources | Include, but are not limited to computers, systems, applications, networks, servers, desktop phones, mobile phones, printers, multi-function devices, mobile computing devices, system data, information and records. |
| Personal information | As defined in the Information Act 2002, means government information from which a person’s identity is apparent or can reasonably be ascertained. |
| Public sector officer | As defined in the Public Sector Employment and Management Act 1993, means the Commissioner for Public Employment, a Chief Executive Officer or an employee. |
| Sensitive information | As defined in the Information Act 2002, means:
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