Australia has announced almost K1.3 million in funding to develop artificial intelligence (AI) toolkits for Pacific Island countries, aimed at supporting the safe and ethical adoption of AI across the region.
The funding, worth about A$420,000, was announced during Pacific Cyber Week and the Digital Transformation Summit in Port Moresby.
The project will be delivered through Australia’s Southeast Asia and Pacific Cyber Program in partnership with Standards Australia.
The toolkits will help governments, policymakers and practitioners better understand and manage AI-related risks by providing practical guidance on AI governance, standards, risk management and safeguards tailored to Pacific needs.
Australia’s Special Envoy for the Pacific and Regional Affairs and High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, Ewen McDonald, said artificial intelligence offers significant opportunities for Pacific countries.
“Artificial intelligence can help improve public services and address the challenges of distance and limited resources. These toolkits will help Pacific governments pursue those opportunities on their own terms and with appropriate safeguards,” he said in a statement issued today.
Australia’s Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology, Jessica Hunter, said the initiative would strengthen the region’s ability to adopt AI responsibly.
“Responsible AI adoption requires practical and accessible guidance. The toolkits will help Pacific partners assess risks, strengthen governance and shape AI use in ways that reflect local needs, values and aspirations,” she said.
The initiative is designed to help Pacific countries make informed decisions, strengthen their own governance systems and participate in the development of international AI standards while ensuring Pacific values, languages and priorities are represented.
The announcement follows Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s commitment to develop a National Framework of Australian Standards for AI, which will establish mandatory rules for large-scale AI infrastructure and development.
Australia will also establish an Office of AI within the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet to coordinate national AI policy covering economic development, security, infrastructure, workforce planning and regulation.
Other initiatives announced during the summit include plans for a PNG Digital Public Infrastructure Centre of Excellence, proposed Pacific Digital and AI Principles, expanded online safety support and a National eSafety Symposium.
Australia said it will continue working with Pacific partners to strengthen digital infrastructure, cyber resilience, digital skills and regional participation in international AI governance.