New Zealand government releases AI framework for use by public service
A framework supporting the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies across the New Zealand Public Service. The Public Service AI Framework sits within the National AI Strategy, which is currently in development.
outlines 6 key pillars of the Government Chief Digital Officer’s (GCDO) AI work programme.
The Public Service AI Framework provides support for agencies in their use of AI, and how to implement these technologies safely. Agencies are encouraged to align with the direction set by this Framework, however it’s not binding.
For practical examples of how the Framework might guide the deployment of AI within your organisation, see Applying the Framework.
Intended outcome of the Framework
The AI Framework supports the overall outcome that:
The Public Service models best practice in AI use, enabling and contributing to the wider community and economy in alignment with New Zealand’s position as a trusted global partner.
Why do we need a Framework?
Scope and audience of the Framework
The Public Service AI Framework has been developed to:
support a structured approach to the development, deployment and use of AI across the New Zealand Public Service
support leaders, decision-makers, practitioners and influencers of AI within Public Service agencies to use AI lawfully and in line with Public Service values.
While the AI Framework may have broader application and usefulness, it’s intended for Public Service AI practitioners and decision-makers.
What kinds of AI does the Framework apply to?
Vision of the Framework
Adopt AI responsibly to modernise public services and deliver better outcomes for all New Zealanders.
The Framework’s vision sets the direction for the safe and responsible use of AI to enable more efficient, responsive and high-performing Public Services.
It encourages agencies to pursue using AI to create value for New Zealanders, while managing risks and maintaining public trust and confidence in the Public Service overall. It also encourages a human-centric approach of AI and other emerging technologies for public services. This will ensure citizens, customers, taxpayers and public service workers are at the forefront of the design and implementation of Artificial Intelligence.
The 5 principles of the Framework
We use the OECD’s values-based AI principles to inform the principles of the Public Service AI Framework.
Cabinet agreed in June 2024 to promote the OECD principles as a key direction for our approach to responsible AI in New Zealand. The OECD principles promote the use of AI that’s innovative and trustworthy and that respects human rights and democratic values.
Government agencies need to use AI in ways that are in line with the existing laws, regulations, conventions, policies and guidance that govern or have application for public service AI use. The AI Framework recognises some key areas within this wider policy context, including the:
Treaty of Waitangi
Official Information Act 1982
Bill of Rights Act 1990
Human Rights Act 1993
Copyright Act 1994
Public Records Act 2005
Public Service Act 2020
Privacy Act 2020.
New Zealand’s approach to AI regulation
Cabinet has agreed to a light-touch, proportionate and risk-based approach to AI regulation. They’ve recognised the NZ policy context already provides some guardrails and have agreed that further regulatory intervention should:
only be considered to unlock innovation or address acute risks
use existing mechanisms in preference to developing a standalone AI Act.
The GCDO is leading a Public Service AI work programme to support the implementation of the Framework’s vision. The work programme will iterate and adapt to changes in context and technology, and support the Public Service to use AI safely and responsibly.
The work programme’s 6 pillars
The following 6 pillars guide the focus of the GCDO-led Public Service AI work programme:
Governance — to support transparency and human accountability in Public Service AI use.
Guardrails — to enable safe and responsible Public Service AI use.
Capability — to build internal and external AI knowledge and skills.
Innovation — to provide pathways to enable safe AI testing and innovation in the Public Service.
Social licence — to ensure New Zealanders and public service workers have trust and confidence in Public Service AI use.
Global voice — to ensure international counterparts see New Zealand as a trusted AI partner.
The GCDO is working closely with MBIE which is compiling a cross-portfolio policy work programme and National AI Strategy. Applying the Framework
The Public Service AI Framework supports government agencies to ensure that they’re using AI lawfully, safely and responsibly for its benefits, while maintaining public trust and aligning with overall Public Service values. The Framework also supports a human-centric approach of AI and other emerging technologies. This will ensure citizens, customers, taxpayers and public service workers at are at the forefront of the design and implementation of Artificial Intelligence and outcomes of this change for both the public and public service workers are positive and equitable.
We recommend that agencies refer to and use the Public Service AI Framework to guide the responsible deployment of AI within their operations.
This could include:
Guiding AI development — referring to the Framework and ensuring alignment with its principles during design and implementation of AI initiatives
Policy formulation — using the Framework to inform the development of organisational AI governance policies and guardrails for the use of AI
Skills building — using the Framework to inform the development of training programmes for users, to ensure they understand how to use AI in line with organisational and public service values and rules
AI evaluation — using the Framework to assess AI initiatives against its key values, principles and rules.