Government inquiry into workplace digital transformation underway

The rapid and seemingly unstoppable digitisation of workplaces across the world has prompted intervention from the government.

Automation has become a key talking point in recent times, and now the federal government is showing an interest, with an inquiry launched by the House of Representatives standing committee on employment, education and training.

According to the government, the committee seeks to hear the perspectives of employers, employees, software developers and providers, academics, employer groups, and trade unions regarding the massive uptake in digital transformation witnessed across Australian workplaces.

Committee chair Lisa Chesters commented on the announcement: “Following the committee’s recent work on generative artificial intelligence in the Australian education system, the committee is now turning its attention to examining the intersection between advanced digital technology and the labour market.”

“Australian workplaces are changing the way they operate. The committee wants to understand what these changes mean for employees and employers, our workplaces and the way we regulate and govern our employment practices.”

In particular, the committee will look to the benefits and risk of the digital expansion and more closely examine automated decision making and machine learning.

Furthermore, the role of business software and regulatory technology companies will be a focal point. The committee aims to uncover ways to ensure safe and responsible use of this tech.

People and organisations can submit opinions via the Parliament of Australia site. Submissions close on 21 June 2024.