What government agencies should look for when procuring AI tools.
AI: From governance and procurement to deployment and risk management
Supporting the Commonwealth’s responsible, lawful and transparent adoption of AI
Enabling responsible AI across government
With extensive experience advising Commonwealth agencies on the legal complexities surrounding AI, we deliver solutions that are tailored to your specific challenges and regulatory environments. We believe in a human-centric approach to AI projects that consider the guardrails, governance frameworks and information requirements for agencies to successfully adopt AI technology in a safe, transparent and ethical manner.
Maddocks is at the forefront of advising government on transformational technology, whole-of-government initiatives and arrangements involving AI. Our approach lays the foundations for our Commonwealth clients to seize new opportunities while ensuring flexibility to adapt as AI evolves. Maddocks is dedicated to working with our clients to build a modern and responsive public service that captures the opportunity of AI, ensuring the benefits are felt broadly and by all Australians.
The Australian AI landscape
Australia is adopting a gradual, standards‑led approach to regulating AI, relying mainly on existing technology‑neutral laws to govern how AI is developed and deployed. The Australian Government’s National AI Plan strengthens this framework by focusing on safe, ethical and productive AI use, and by improving national capability and infrastructure rather than introducing a dedicated AI Act. Providing practical guardrails on accountability, transparency and risk management, forming a foundation for future mandatory rules in high‑risk contexts.
"We are uniquely placed to help Commonwealth agencies harness the benefits of AI, while navigating the legal, policy, and ethical complexities with confidence." – Gavan Mackenzie, Partner
Quick tips on AI
Contracts and AI: what needs to be included?
Current AI trends in the Government Sector.
Featured Insights
5 tips on how government agencies can protect privacy when implementing AI
Australian Government agencies should refrain from rushing through service delivery design and decisions.
Privacy Awareness Week 2026: Smart tech, smarter choices for NSW government
Privacy Awareness Week (PAW) is an opportunity for NSW public sector agencies to reflect on how smart technologies – ...
The new national plan for Australia’s AI-enabled future
On 2 December 2025, the Commonwealth Government released its National AI Plan.
Quick tips and helpful tricks: navigating the latest Government issued guidance on AI
A simple roadmap for safe and effective AI adoption: updated guidance for Australian organisations
Key learnings from the OAIC’s recent determination on Kmart’s use of facial recognition
The Kmart Decision builds on and reinforces a 2024 decision regarding Bunnings’ similar use of FRT in its stores.
Maximising value: strategies for smarter AI procurement in Government
Most services provided by third party vendors now include a form of AI.
Download a copy of our AI Capability Statement
Maddocks AI Services
Artificial Intelligence Legal Services
Maddocks is dedicated to empowering clients across sectors to innovate, regulate, and navigate AI in Australia – securely and strategically.
Digital Transformation Legal Services
Digital transformation revolutionises organisations, reshaping operations and customer value using technology and innovation. It's a cultural shift, driving innovation, improving efficiency and delivering enhanced value to customers in the rapidly evolving digital age.
Privacy, Data & Information Law
The Australian privacy and information regulatory landscape is evolving at pace. Businesses and public sector agencies need to be confident that their information handling practices strengthens compliance and minimises reputational risks.
Need more information about how we can help with your AI challenges and opportunties?
Please contact our experienced Commonwealth team.
Sign up to receive our latest AI updates