The Government has today launched the APS AI Plan – a clear path for the next wave of digital transformation in the APS, designed to deliver more effective services for Australians.
In collaboration with the Digital Transformation Agency and the Australian Public Service Commission, Finance has led the development of the APS AI Plan, drawing on extensive input and use cases from across the public service.
The plan is built around 3 core pillars – Trust, People and Tools – to drive practical actions that accelerate the safe and responsible use of AI adoption across the public service. It sets clear expectations for every agency, including leadership accountability, mandatory capability development for staff, and transparent reporting on outcomes.
To better serve the public, under the plan every public servant will have:
- training and capability support to use generative AI tools safely, responsibly and effectively
- access to generative AI tools
- leadership and support from Chief AI Officers to promote adoption
- opportunities to collaborate, build on and reuse work of others.
AI Delivery and Enablement (AIDE)
Finance is leading major initiatives under the plan, including a new multidisciplinary function to help agencies overcome common barriers, share lessons and accelerate AI adoption.
By fast-tracking the uptake of priority use cases of across the APS, AIDE will reduce duplication and help the APS move from adhoc pilots to scalable, sustainable innovation.
GovAI expansion
The GovAI platform will expand to provide all APS staff with secure, sovereign AI tools, including GovAI Chat.
GovAI Chat is a secure, government-controlled generative AI tool developed specifically for the APS, designed to:
- Operate within Australian Government infrastructure, ensuring all data remains securely within Australia and under government control.
- Meet the highest standards of security and compliance, including the Protective Security Policy Framework, enabling safe handling of sensitive and PROTECTED-level information.
- Enable the APS to build digital capability, drive innovation, and maintain public trust in the responsible use of AI.
GovAI Chat will begin APS trials from April 2026.
Try GovAI today
Join 2,600 others and access GovAI through your GovTEAMS account – more information is available on the GovAI website. The GovAI Interactive Training helps APS staff gain the skills to use a range of AI Chat services including Copilot, ChatGPT and the upcoming GovAI Chat.
For more information on the APS AI Plan, visit digital.gov.au or email the APS AI Plan team.
