Centre for Public Integrity Warns Australia Risks Another Robodebt Over 8 ADM Reforms
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Nov 4
Centre for Public Integrity Warns Australia Risks Another Robodebt Over 8 ADM Reforms
2 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Nov 4
Summary
Eight reforms in the Centre for Public Integrity’s “Computer Says No” report call for a mandatory audit, a public register and an independent watchdog over government automated decision-making.
The warning centers on the integrated assessment tool for aged care, where an algorithm has been found to routinely under-assess older Australians’ support needs and assessors cannot override incorrect results.
October’s commonwealth ombudsman report found the government ignored robodebt royal commission transparency recommendations when developing and rolling out that tool.
Attorney-General Michelle Rowland said an ADM framework is being developed to add safeguards and human oversight, but she gave no timeline for releasing a draft after consultation ended in January 2025.
Independent MP Kate Chaney, who introduced a private member’s bill in September, said departments still use ADM with little consistency or transparency as pressure grows for binding rules.