The Australian government is looking to artificial intelligence (AI) to address the country's housing crisis, with New South Wales Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully, describing AI as a "game changer" in streamlining the planning system and getting more homes built quickly. However, experts are warning that rushing into AI solutions without proper consideration could lead to another Robodebt-style disaster.
The use of AI in housing crisis management raises several concerns, including the lack of transparency in AI systems, which can make it challenging to identify errors or biases. Additionally, AI may displace human planners' expertise and blur responsibility when things go wrong. There is also a risk of unintended consequences, where AI prioritizes certain ecological risks over others, potentially ignoring local community concerns.
Several Australian states are already exploring the use of AI in planning and assessments. New South Wales has launched a tender for an AI solution to support assessments for State Significant Developments, aiming to reduce assessment timeframes. South Australia is running a small-scale pilot to automatically assess digital architectural drawings against prescribed criteria. Tasmania is developing an AI policy to explore the potential benefits and risks of AI in planning and assessments.
Experts emphasize the need for responsible innovation, anticipating risks and unintended consequences, and engaging with stakeholders to ensure AI systems meet community needs. The Robodebt debacle serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of careful consideration and robust design in AI systems to avoid harming citizens.
As Australia navigates the complexities of AI adoption, it's crucial to prioritize transparency, accountability, and community engagement to ensure that AI solutions benefit the housing crisis without causing unintended harm.
