Artificial intelligence (AI) and other digital advances will underpin Australia’s future economic success, creating innovation opportunities for Australian businesses, boosting productivity and reclaiming Australia’s competitive edge in the region and globally, according to the Business Council.
Business Council Chief Executive Bran Black said the BCA seeks to ensure the use of new technologies like AI benefit our broader society and unleashes the community wide benefits advances in this technology can provide.
“To lead this important work, the BCA is proud to announce the appointment of Mel Silva, Managing Director Google Australia and New Zealand as Chair of our Digital and Artificial Intelligence Committee,” Mr Black said.
“Mel has the ideal experience to lead this critical committee, with extensive experience managing digital assets and transformative technologies, particularly through her leadership of Google Australia and New Zealand.
“Prior to joining Google in 2007, Mel was General Manager at Fairfax Digital Direct Access and has an extensive background in the technologically advanced financial services sector.” Chair of the BCA’s Digital and Artificial Intelligence Committee Mel Silva said the Committee’s focus is to drive the modernisation and global competitiveness of Australia’s economy and ensure the country is well placed to become a centre for innovation and investment.
“Business is going to play a large role in the applications of AI that will enable both Australians and the global competitiveness of the Australian economy,” Ms Silva said.
“This Committee will bring together a variety of industry leaders tasked with ensuring we have the settings in place to develop this technology here in a way that’s safe, that attracts investment, and benefits people and businesses across the country.
“We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with government, industry and the community in helping Australia lead the way in using AI to build a stronger digital future for all Australians.”
The Digital and Artificial Intelligence Committee will bring together members from a range of industries and will commence at the beginning of the 2024-25 financial year.
