Joint submission from library and information related organisations to the inquiry into generative artificial intelligence in the Australian education system

This submission into generative AI in the Australian education system is jointly made by the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) including ALIA VET Libraries Australia (ALIA VLA), the Council of Australian University Librarians (CAUL), National and State Libraries Australasia (NSLA), CAVAL, AI4 Libraries Archives Museums (AI4LAM) and Open Access Australasia (OAA).
 
The library and information sector is committed to fundamental principles of equity of access to information, knowledge and culture; respect for the individuality and diversity of people; and the protection of privacy. Fifteen discreet recommendations are made in the submission and in line with these values, and to effectively and safely harness the benefits of generative AI, three overarching priciples are put forward:
1. Priority is given to improving literacy, including AI, information and media literacy, for students and staff.
2. A commitment to upholding human rights, ensuring fairness and centring ethical considerations in the development and use of generative AI tools.
3. Regulations, policy, standards and guidelines should be created in consultation with key stakeholders including library and information professionals, representatives of minority groups and First Nations people.