The Centre is developing a comprehensive Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy to guide the safe, ethical and effective use of AI across our organisation and the wider child and family services sector. This policy responds to the rapid growth of AI in human services and the need for clear, practical guidance that protects children, families and staff while enabling responsible innovation. Across 12 weeks, a dedicated project team and interns from the University of Melbourne will produce an evidence-based internal-use framework. The policy will cover: Ethical principles for AI use Roles and responsibilities of stakeholders across the organisation and sector Acceptable and prohibited uses Data privacy and de‑identification requirements Risk assessment and governance processes Human oversight standards Complaints, incidents and reporting pathways These components reflect international and national best‑practice AI governance standards and the specific needs of the child and family services sector. It will address all forms of AI utilised within the Centre and broader sector– including generative AI, machine learning and automated decision-support tools. The framework will be applicable to all staff, contractors and teams- as well as support alignment with existing ICT, privacy, data governance and child safety policies. Policy Development The Centre’s new AI policy interns from the University of Melbourne will support the research and development process. The three interns bring a fresh perspective, and passion for shaping safe, inclusive, and forward‑thinking approaches to artificial intelligence. Policy development will follow a rigorous and structured process which includes: A rapid evidence review of AI governance frameworks and sector research. Staff consultations across roles to understand needs, risks and opportunities. Development of case studies, a guidance pack, and a getting started guide to support implementation. Validation and refinement with the AI Working Group and key staff. This will ensure consistency, safeguards privacy and human rights, and supports staff in confidently navigating emerging technologies. The Centre is committed to advancing responsible, ethical and evidence-informed approaches to AI through the development and implementation of this policy. Pictured: AI Policy project team – Emma Nugent (Senior Policy and Research Officer) and Meg, Evelyn, Persia (AI policy interns) Related articles News Entries now open for 2026 National Families Week Art Competition 17 Apr 2026 The Centre is proud to announce that entries are now open for the 2026 National Families Week Art Competition—inviting children and young people to share what makes them happy through art. News Peak body welcomes new Victorian Ministry and urges action on rising pressures for children and families 15 Apr 2026 The Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare welcomes the Victorian Government’s refreshed ministry and congratulates all newly appointed Ministers whose portfolios shape the lives of children, young people and families. News Resilient, adaptive sector keeps child and family services moving through fuel crisis 10 Apr 2026 Victoria’s child and family services are responding to the fuel crisis with speed and resourcefulness, adapting how care is delivered to ensure children and families remain connected to essential support. Last updated: 10 Apr 2026