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Capability 5.1.3

AI Research Skills

Definition

Expert knowledge needed to develop new AI methods and technologies, from algorithms and architectures to safety and interpretability. These skills drive frontier research and strengthen scientific leadership in AI. Individual researcher capability. Fundamental science.

Examples

  • ARC and CSIRO AI Fellowship Programs (2022–2025)
  • ADM+S and AIML Centres of Excellence, research output tracking
  • OECD AI Research Output Dataset (Scopus).

Indicators

  • Number of AI PhDs, publication impact, compute access
  • Existence and scale of domestic (accredited) training capacity
  • Skills & Cirricula mapped to Skills for the Information Age (SFIA) frameworks
  • Presence of articulated entry level pathways (vet/uni/professional)
  • Workforce participation and diversity (gender, region, age, etc.)
  • Industry collaborations and placements
  • Government and public sector capability
  • CPD or microcredential uptake across professions
  • Ratio of skilled migrants vs domestic graduates in AI roles

National AI Plan

PLAN COMMITMENT

Moderate commitment

Highlights Australia’s strong AI research base and refers to support for AI research capability through existing funding and programs, including over $362 million in research grants and $47 million for the Next Generation Graduates Program to build a pipeline of highly skilled professionals in AI and emerging tech (Action 2, Action 5). Marked as moderate commitment (as compared to the size of investments made in other jurisdictions). Moderate commitment by government in the plan aligns with recommendation to build agency, although greater attention is recommended.

Stocktake

Is the Stocktake missing evidence?

Share additional information for potential future Assessments