Initiative overview
GovAI Chat is a secure, government-controlled generative AI tool developed specifically for the Australian Public Service (APS). It is different from commercial tools (for example, ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot) because it is designed to:
- Operate within secure onshore infrastructure with vendors who are compliant with the Australian Government Hosting Certification Framework which ensures data remains securely within Australia and under government control.
- Meet the highest standards of security and compliance, including meeting the Australia’s Protective Security Policy Framework, enabling safe handling of sensitive and PROTECTED-level information.
- Offer equitable access to all APS staff, with usage costs covered during the pilot phase.
- Allow access to a range of AI models providing choice and flexibility and limiting the risk of vendor lock-in.
- Enable the APS to build digital capability, drive innovation, and maintain public trust in the responsible use of AI.
GovAI Chat will increase the capability of the APS to deliver more for the Australian public, while maintaining standards and complying with legal frameworks for cyber security and data sovereignty. The result will be a safer and smarter way to work that supports operational integrity and delivers value through time saved and reduced rework. GovAI Chat will continue to evolve throughout Alpha and Beta trial stages based on user feedback, security requirements and technical capability. The delivery team will regularly incorporate feedback, distil insights, prioritise for future implementation and adjust the product roadmap as required. The GovAI trial will consider a range of potential enhancements and continue to seek feedback on these, considering impacts to key themes such as scale, scope, schedule, budget, usability and trust. We will embed a continuous observability and evaluation process to review all relevant metrics. Initial trials of GovAI Chat with APS staff are expected to begin in April 2026.
