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How Australia's National Security Chief Used AI to Write Speeches

Crikey

SKIPPED

Details

Date Published
11 Nov 2025
Priority Score
2
Australian
Yes
Created
12 Nov 2025, 05:08 pm

Authors (1)

Description

As the government pushes public servants to use AI, this is the first time that FOI has been used to reveal how the government staff are already using the technology.

Summary

The article reveals through freedom of information requests that Australia's top national security bureaucrat has utilized AI chatbots to write speeches and messages. This marks a notable instance of AI use within the Australian government, aligning with broader AI integration initiatives announced by Finance Minister Katy Gallagher. While the article highlights AI's emerging role in administrative efficiency, it does not delve into existential or catastrophic AI risks. The piece is significant for its insight into governmental adoption of AI technology, which could affect security policy and operational transparency.

Body

Australia’s top national security bureaucrat used an AI chatbot to ghostwrite speeches and messages to his colleagues, internal documents show.As Finance Minister Katy Gallagher announcesa significant government-wide AI plan to promote its use in the public service,Crikeyhas used freedom of information (FOI) laws to reveal how a government employee is already using the nascent generative AI technology in their work.Hamish Hansford is the Department of Home Affairs’ head of national security, the Commonwealth counter-terrorism coordinator and national counter foreign interference coordinator.