Big business wants artificial intelligence to handle more "boring but essential" jobs as part of a race to establish Australia as a global leader in the technology and avoid decades of playing catch-up. AI is a significant opportunity to boost living standards and the nation's "next big lever for economic growth" according to Business Council of Australia chief executive Bran Black. "If we get this right, AI can deliver a significant productivity boost and that means higher real wages and more opportunities for more Australians. "The choices we make now will determine whether we gain a competitive edge or fall behind." The council on Monday released a report aiming to accelerate Australia's AI agenda, with a plan to boost innovation and address stagnating productivity. It recommends "clear, practical and risk-based" regulations be developed, as well as the establishment of new research centres and partnerships and a simplified approval process for data centres to speed infrastructure development. Specialist training for data scientists and engineers needs expanding and workers need education for how to use the technology to improve "the day-to-day work experience", with courses a part of primary, secondary and tertiary curricula. "Even if we apply AI to just the 'boring but essential' parts of our economy - like payroll processing or document analysis - the dividends to consumers and businesses could be significant," Mr Black said. It could free people up to do more creative and collaborative work that machines can't. The change will be disruptive and a challenge for many, requiring safeguards such as the council's recommended safety institute to focus on technical guardrails. But it's hoped Australia could become a hub for artificial intelligence, leveraging a highly-educated workforce, a stable democracy and the potential of abundant renewable energy in the future, along with its research institutions and international intelligence sharing deals. The council wants the focus to be on opportunity, rather than a "fear-first" mindset, but acknowledges the power that makes AI so promising also raises legitimate questions about its responsible and safe use. It's up to industry and the government to strengthen public trust in AI technology, the report says. "We believe AI can augment human capabilities, create new kinds of jobs, and make existing ones more rewarding and less burdensome." "But achieving this positive future requires deliberate choices and concerted action," the report notes. Australian Associated Press