Australia’s National AI Plan makes strong commitments to infrastructure and adoption, but leaves governance and liability unresolved. This uncertainty exposes SMEs to risk, complicates investment decisions, and weakens public trust. History shows that technologies such as electricity became dependable only when standards, liability, and oversight aligned. AI now requires the same institutional attention if it is to move from experimentation to reliable national infrastructure

Many critiques of the innovation system miss the specific economic growth role government plays as ecosystem steward. Victoria’s Lead Scientist, Dr Amanda Caples, argues that transforming regions into innovation powerhouses is never accidental. It requires a deliberate approach that builds capability and aligns public and private efforts. Amanda outlines a practical framework for identifying strengths and asking the right questions to drive regional specialisation.