Generative AI is what’s known as a ‘general purpose technology’ – something that affects all aspects of society and the economy. For the APS, it offers tremendous opportunities to improve efficiency, decision-making, and service delivery. However, it also introduces complex challenges in terms of ethics, risks, accountability, and governance.
In recognition of the fundamental shift that generative AI is bringing to government operations, the recently launched AI Plan for the Australian Public Service (APS AI Plan) outlined that agencies are required to appoint one of their existing senior leadership team as a Chief AI Officer (CIAO) by July 2026.
Why a Chief AI Officer (CAIO)?
Many public sector organisations already have Chief Information Officers (CIO), Chief Data Officers (CDO) or similar. There are also AI Accountable Officials, who are accountable for the implementation of the APS AI Plan within their organization.
While AI Accountable Officials enable their agencies to adopt AI responsibly and confidently by providing governance frameworks, Chief AI Officers lead the transformation by identifying opportunities and driving cultural change. Together, they ensure the APS doesn't just adopt AI, but does so in ways that delivers value and maintains public trust.
Who should the Chief AI Officers be?
CAIOs are expected to be existing senior leaders in their agency, separate to the Accountable Official where possible. They should possess the ability to influence and effectively drive the organisational change needed to increase their agency’s use of AI.
The initial guidance provided to agencies sets out some of the considerations involved in deciding who should fulfill the CAIO role and how it complements the role of Accountable Officials. For some agencies, it will make sense for the CAIO role to be combined with another role such as CIO or CDO. In others, it might make more sense for it to be driven by a policy or operational leader.
The initial guidance is designed to help make sure that the choice of CAIO is a deliberate decision which suits each individual agency.
What happens next?
The initial guidance is a starting point, designed to change with technology. As AI continues to evolve, so will our understanding of its best practices in the public sector.
Agencies have until July 2026 to appoint their CAIO. The new AI Delivery and Enablement (AIDE) function will work with and coordinate the CAIOs to help drive safe and responsible adoption and deliver better outcomes for Australians.
If you would like to provide your feedback or have any questions, email the APS AI Plan team.
CAIO information pack
Download the Chief AI Officer information pack for further information.
