AI is rapidly changing how we work, learn and play. But 1 in 4 Australians are struggling to use AI tools and apps1 and 3 in 4 think additional laws and regulations are needed to use the technology safely and responsibly.2
Our research indicated that AI has the potential to make Australia more inclusive by:
- Creating opportunities
- Increasing access to services
- Making workplaces more effective
- Supporting us to solve big problems.3
But to achieve this vision, we need to use and distribute AI technology ethically and equally.
The rapid rise of emerging tech and fast pace changes in our digital world puts at risk the good work that has been done to close the digital divide. It imperative that people and organisations across sectors act now.
That’s why Good Things welcome’s the Australian Government’s National AI Plan, released 2 December 2025.
The Plan covers three priority areas:
- capturing the opportunity
- spreading the benefits
- keeping Australians safe.
We believe that Good Things happen when everyone has the skills, confidence and affordable access they need to keep up with tech changes and get online safely. Having advocated for digital inclusion to be part of this Plan in order to enable equitable and safe uptake of the technology, we were pleased to see spreading the benefits of AI as a core element, including our AI for Good initiative showcased as an example of how working together can close the digital divide.
Through AI for Good, Good Things is creating and collating AI literacy learning content for beginners, continuing community based learning through the establishment of local AI Hubs and rolling out learning through our digital literacy programs. With the support of Telstra, Microsoft and Linkedin, the program will continue supporting those most at risk of being left behind as the digital world rapidly changes.
The National AI Plan provides a sound base on which to grow support across sectors to create ethical, safe and responsible AI users, manage risks, and ensure everyone benefits from this emerging technology. But, more work is needed to make this goal a reality.
Read the Australian Government’s National AI Plan here
References
- Australian Attitudes to Getting Online 2025, Good Things, 2025
- Adult Media Literacy in 2024: Australian Attitudes, Experiences & Needs, Notley et al, 2024
- Digital Sisters AI for Good Report: Understanding AI Literacy and Digital Inclusion, Good Things, 2024