The Digital Platform Regulators Forum (DP-REG) has published working papers on algorithms and the large language models (LLMs) used in generative artificial intelligence (AI) to mark the launch of its website.
DP-REG is made up of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), the eSafety Commissioner (eSafety) and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC). Each member contributed to the working papers, reflecting DP‑REG’s purpose to promote a streamlined and cohesive approach to the regulation of digital platform technologies in Australia.
The papers support DP-REG’s 2023-24 strategic priorities, which include a focus on understanding the impact of algorithms, and evaluating the benefits, risks and harms of generative AI.
Working Paper 1 – Literature summary: Harms and risks of algorithms considers the harms and risks posed by some commonly used types of algorithms to end-users and society. This paper expands and consolidates members’ understanding of the types of algorithms relevant to their work.
Working Paper 2 – Examination of technology: Large Language Models provides an overview of LLMs and their impact on the regulatory roles of each member.
AI is rapidly evolving, with new natural-language chatbot services, such as Open AI’s ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing Chat and Google’s Bard, becoming highly popular with consumers over the last twelve months. At the same time, policy makers and regulators’ consideration of the implications of AI is rapidly evolving. Since these papers were drafted United States President Joe Biden signed an executive order on AI, and Australia, the European Union and 27 other countries signed the Bletchley Declaration on AI. eSafety has also this week commenced public consultation on draft industry standards which will, among other things, address risks of generative AI being used to create highly harmful material such as child sexual abuse material.
DP-REG continues to monitor local and international developments in AI to contribute to the Australian Government’s response to AI.
The papers will be valuable resources for government, industry and the public as these technologies are increasingly integrated and engaged with.
Today also marks the launch of the DP-REG website. DP-REG welcomes engagement with stakeholders through the website, both in relation to AI as well as on its broader work on digital platforms regulation.